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NewsTalk 99.7 & AM 630 WPRO to Present Opioid Crisis Special. This Friday (9/13), Cumulus Media’s “NewsTalk 99.7 FM & AM 630 WPRO” in Providence is presenting a day of broadcasts “aimed at confronting the opioid crisis and how it affects Rhode Island and Southern New England.” Titled, “Enough: WPRO’s Opioid Awareness Day,” all of the station’s programs – “The News with Gene Valicenti,” “The Tara Granahan Show,” “The Matt Allen Show,” “The Dan Yorke Show,” and “The Gresh Show” will “bring listeners personal stories of addiction and recovery, information about city and state programs designed to help, and the physical and physiological effects of opioids which lead to the addiction.” Cumulus Media Providence market manager Holly Paras says, “As the opioid crisis continues to threaten the state of Rhode Island, WPRO understands that we have a responsibility to use our voice and our platform to discuss this terrifying epidemic. I am proud to be part of a station that understands this responsibility and is bringing this difficult but critically important conversation to the community.” Guests will include former Boston Celtics player Chris Herren, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit, mental health advocate and former congressman Patrick Kennedy, recovery advocate John Tassoni, leaders from industries affected by the crisis, first responders, and more.

FOX News Radio Signs with Triton Digital for Audio Advertising Technology. This deal between FOX News Radio and Triton Digital allows FNR to the global technology and service leader in the digital audio and podcast industry. The new deal will “leverage the comprehensive suite of audio advertising serving technology to allow insertion of targeted ads into FNR’s original podcasts. The network will also utilize Triton’s podcast management system for enhanced distribution across multiple podcast listening platforms including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, TuneIn and Stitcher. Additionally, the partnership will enable listeners access to daily FNR programs, such as “The Brian Kilmeade Show”and “The Guy Benson Show,”as ad supported full-length podcasts.

Trump Cancels Afghanistan Peace Talks, 2020 Presidential Race, Hurricane Dorian/Bahamas Relief, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Protests, Dems Trump Impeachment Strategy, and NFL Opening Weekend Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The news that President Trump canceled previously secret negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government; the Democrats and Republicans challenging President Trump in 2020; Hurricane Dorian’s weekend track and the devastation left in the Bahamas; U.S.-China trade relations and the continuing Democracy protests in Hong Kong; the Democrats’ strategy for building an impeachment case against President Trump; and the NFL’s opening weekend were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

WTAM, Cleveland Presenting Geraldo Rivera-Hosted 2020 Election Event. Tomorrow (9/10), iHeartMedia’s Cleveland news/talk outlet “Newsradio WTAM 1100” is presenting, “Ohio: The Heart of 2020,” a live event hosted by FOX News correspondent-at-large and WTAM air personality Geraldo Rivera. The program will take place from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm and will feature a panel including: Shontel Brown, chairperson for the Democratic Party of Cuyahoga County; Rob Frost, chairman for the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County; Ohio Lieutenant Governor (and former Ohio Secretary of State) Jon Husted; Bill Wills, co-host of “Cleveland’s Morning News with Wills and Snyder” on WTAM 1100; and Tom Beres, former WKYC-TV, Cleveland senior political correspondent. Listeners are being given chances to attend the invite-only event by listening to the daily, 9:00 am to 10:00 am “Geraldo in Cleveland” program.

Joey Brooks Named SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Connecticut. Programming pro Joey Brooks moves from his position at iHeartMedia’s Miami cluster – PD for hot AC WMIA and APD for CHR WHYI – to Connecticut to serve as senior vice president of programming for the Hartford and New Haven markets that include news/talk stations WPOP-AM and WELI-AM and sports talkers WUCS-FM and WAVZ-AM. iHeartMedia Hartford region president Steve Honeycomb says, “Joey’s experience of leadership, drive, and passion for radio will be an amazing addition to our iHeartMedia teams in Hartford and New Haven. There is no doubt that Joey will take our nine market-leading radio brands to the next level as we continue to provide the best entertainment for our listeners.”

Former MLB Player and WXOS-FM, St. Louis Host Chris Duncan Passes at 38. He left Hubbard Radio’s WXOS-FM, St. Louis “101 ESPN” back in January to focus on his health. On Friday (9/6), Chris Duncan died after a seven-year battle with brain cancer. Duncan came up into the big leagues in 2005 and was an integral part of the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2006 World Series Championship. After leaving baseball, he began his career as a sports talk radio host on “101 ESPN.” He was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and underwent treatment. He made progress and returned to the air as a co-host of the midday show, “The Turn,” until leaving earlier this year.

TALKERS News Notes. Today (9/9), the new “Florida Man Radio” talk format debuts onJVC Media’s WDYZ-AM, Altamonte Springs and W288CJ, Oviedo in the Orlando market. The station features Bubba the Love Sponge in morning drive, followed by Scott Ledger in middays and Shannon Burke in afternoon drive…..When the Texas Radio Hall of Fame inducts its class of 2019, George Gimarc, producer of Envision Networks’ nationally syndicated 24/7 comedy format, “Today’s Comedy,” will among its members. The induction celebration takes place on November 2 at the Texas Museum of Broadcasting and Communications. Gimarc is recognized for his work at KZEW-FM, KDGE-FM, and KRQX-FM in Dallas. Gimarc is credited with being instrumental in the birth of the classic rock and alternative formats…..Art Bell fans are being treated to classic “Coast to Coast AM” programs as Premiere Networks makes the Art Bell Vault – content from the years Art Bell hosted “Coast to Coast AM” – available online to Coast Insider subscribers. Premiere says, “As part of our initial 20 shows launching the Art Bell Vault, we’re showcasing some truly iconic episodes like the 1995 appearance of aspiring time traveler ‘Mad Man Marcum,’ who detailed his attempts to build a machine to journey into the past. Coast Insiders can also hear Mel Waters discuss a bottomless hole said to be in his backyard and a man named ‘Bugs,’ who purportedly shot a Bigfoot. In addition to that, subscribers can hear Art Bell’s first conversations with Father Malachi Martin as well as Dr. Michio Kaku.”

Music Radio News and Career Moves. KOAS-FM, Las Vegas “Jammin’ 105.7” afternoon drive personality Paco Lopez is promoted to program director of the Beasley Media Group hip hop station. He’ll continue his on-air role with the station. Beasley Las Vegas VP and market managerPeter Burton says, “We are lucky to have such a seasoned and successful professional from the format on our team. Having been on the air and programmed in format successfully in markets like Washington DC, New York, Houston, and Miami, we consider ourselves lucky to have Paco on staff here in Las Vegas. He’s also an incredibly positive influence in the building. We are looking forward to him having great success with us here in Las Vegas.”…..Phoenix CHR KZZP “104.7 KISS FM” adds the YEA Networks-syndicated “Tino Cochino Radio” program to its schedule for the 8:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. Station PD Mat Mitchell says, “My dream to have one of the best top 40 on-air personalities and influencers in the country join our program lineup has come true. Tino, Raquel and Nicasio are among the most driven people I’ve met in the industry and I cannot wait for their new night show to start in Phoenix while they continue to expand their syndication profile.”…..Pictured below at the WJMN, Boston “Summer Jam” event yesterday (9/8) is rapper Megan Thee Stallion (center) with WJMN personalities. Megan sat down for an interview with morning host Ashlee in which she said she believes Nikki Minaj will record again, contrary to her recent surprise retirement announcement. Seen with Megan are (from l-r): DJ Pup Dawg, Ashlee, Santi, and DJ 4eign. Photo: Bethany Anna

August 2019 PPM Data. August 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s August 2019 survey period covered July 18 – August 14. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – News/talk KLBJ-AM is a collective +2.0 via three straight upticks (2.8 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+) and leaps from ninth to fifth with its best 6+-performance (4.8) in more than six years (5.0, June 2013).

Up three-tenths in both July and August (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” progresses from #18 to #16. Even though iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KVET-AM nearly doubles (+.3) its 6+ AQH-share in three straight up or flat moves (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7, 6+), “1300 AM The Zone” backslides from #24 to #25.

Notwithstanding a strong August +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-performance since 9.5 in March, University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT remains in the runner-up slot. KUT’s eight shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (March); -2.0 (April); -.1 (May); -1.6 (June); +.9 (July); and +1.2 (August). June’s 5.8 was its lowest 6+-showing since April 2017 (5.8, as well).

Austin Music Formats – Piling on a +1.1 to July’s increase of three-tenths (2.8 – 3.1 – 4.2, 6+), CRISTA Media contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9” zooms into the top ten (#13 to #9), reaching the four-share level (4.2, 6+) for the first time since February’s 4.6. In five successive reports without a loss, alternative KROX “101-X” nets a +1.3 (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #10) with its best 6+-showing (3.9) since September 2018’s 4.0. A collective -2.7 in four straight decreases (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+), directly following March’s +1.2, regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” ends the slide with a +.3 to 4.3 (tenth to eighth, 6+). More than doubling (+.8) its 6+ AQH-share in July/August (.7 – .8 – 1.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLJA “Amor 107.7” cracks the top twenty with its best 6+-stat (1.5, #20, 6+) since 1.6 in January. Despite being a combined -.6 in July/August (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7, 6+), adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” is #1 the fifth month in a row. June’s 9.3 was its highest 6+ share since “Holiday” 2018 (also 9.3). Prior to this past April, the last time “Bob” occupied the top spot was December 2018 (8.3, 6+). Dropping from fourth to seventh, Entercom hot AC KAMX “Mix 94.7” is -1.8 in July/August (6.4 – 5.9 – 4.6, 6+), directly following May/June’s combined +1.1 (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+). In the market’s three-way country contest, iHeartMedia-owned KASE improves by one-tenth (4.8 – 4.9, 6+) and one ranker (fifth to fourth). “Austin’s #1 For New Country” was a combined -1.0 in June/July (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+), immediately after +1.5 in three straight bumps (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, 6+). It plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and was -.6 in February. The other two country combatants, however, aren’t as lucky as KASE in August: Genuine Austin Radio’s KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” surrenders eight-tenths (1.8, #16 to #17, 6+), while KASE’s sibling, KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin Texas Original,” erodes by -1.2 and fades from the top ten (#7 to #13). For KOKE-FM, it ends four straight sweeps without a loss that netted six-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+); July’s 2.6 was its best 6+-stat since February’s 2.7. Meanwhile, KVET-FM is an overall -2.5 in three successive downturns (5.8 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+), following May’s +.9. “The Austin Texas Original” was +1.2 in January (5.0 – 6.2, 6+) and hadn’t been below a four-share (6+) in more than six years (3.1, February 2013). Adult contemporary KGSR is an overall +.8 in three consecutive positive or neutral trends (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+) and progresses from #15 to #14. Its current 2.7 represents the best 6+-showing for “97.1 Austin City Limits Radio” ever since it flipped from triple A to AC this past March (2019). Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted KKMJ is a combined -1.4 in July/August, “Majic 95.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday” remains in third-place. Completely erasing July’s +.6 (4.4 – 3.8, -.6, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KPEZ “102.3 The Beat” departs the top ten (#8 to #11). July’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share in more than two years (4.7, June 2017). Off six-tenths as well in August is University of Texas at Austin triple A KUTX “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” (2.2 – 1.6, #16 to #19, 6+).

Up eight-tenths in June but down three-tenths in July, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” posts an August +1.0 (7.5 – 8.5, 6+), marching from second to first. WUNC, which was +1.0 in January and -.6 in February, has its best 6+-stat (8.5) in exactly one year (8.8, August 2018).

After gaining six-tenths in July (1.6 – 2.2, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH returns one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) and is unchanged at #9. In four successive sweeps without an increase (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.4, 6+), The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH has lost a total of six-tenths and repeats at #11.

Providence Music Formats – Over and above being a collective +1.7 in three straight spikes (7.6 – 8.5 – 8.6 – 9.3, 6+), Hall Broadcasting country WCTK leaps from third to first. This (9.3) is the highest 6+-share for “Cat Country 98.1” in just over one year (10.1, July 2018) and first time at #1 since that same (July 2018) sweep. It succeeds iHeartMedia-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll,” which had been #1 the past three months. A combined -1.6 in July/August (10.2 – 9.8 – 8.6, 6+), WHJY segues to #2. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. A loss of six-tenths (9.1 – 8.5, second to third, 6+) sends Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” to its lowest 6+-share (8.5) in almost four years (7.2, October 2015). Seven recent (6+) shifts for iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WSNE include: -.9 (November 2018); -1.0 (Holiday” 2018); +.5 (March); +.5 (May); -.7 (June); +1.4 (July); and -.5 in August (5.7 – 5.2, flat at #6, 6+). July’s 5.7 was its best 6+-performance in just over two years (June 2017, 5.7, as well). Prior to June’s loss of seven-tenths, “Coast 93.3” was a collective +1.2 in three consecutive improvements (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). In the CHR arena, Townsquare Media CHR WFHN, which had its 6+-stat shrink by two-thirds (-2.8) via six down or flat reports in succession (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.4, 6+), ends the slide with a +.4 to 1.8. Moreover, “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#14 to #10). Immediately in advance of the just-mentioned streak, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music 92 PRO-FM” is down seven-tenths in three straight negative or neutral trends (7.4 – 7.4 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+) and continues in fifth-place. Up a collective half-share as a result of five successive up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), iHeartMedia Boston CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” falters by two-tenths to 1.4 (6+) and shifts from #12 to a three-way tie at #11. Also part of that three-way logjam at #11 is Cumulus Media rhythmic CHR WWKX “Hot 106,” which is -1.0 in three losses in succession (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.8 – 1.4, 6+). Disappearing from print in July and August are Red Wolf Broadcasting Spanish tropical WKKB “Latina 100.3,” which posted a 1.2 in June (#16, 6+) and classic hits-oldies sibling WSKP “Good Times … Great Oldies” (.8, #19, June 2019, 6+).

Norfolk

Spoken-Word Formats – After a hiatus of just over three years (July 2016), Max Broadcast Group Holdings outlets are listed again.

The only entry appearing in print under the spoken-word umbrella in this Virginia market is Max Broadcast Group sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1,” which has a July/August topline of 1.2 – 1.4 (#16 to #14, 6+); its internet stream, which notched a .1 in July (#19, 6+), disappears in August.

Norfolk Music Formats – Only one station in the 48 PPM-markets registers a (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 increase of at least two full-shares and that honor goes to … WNOR “FM 99 Rocks” (+2.1). In fact, the Saga Communications-owned facility hasn’t had a decrease the last five survey periods and is a stunning +3.0 in that timeframe (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 8.9, fourth to second, 6+). Moreover, “FM 99 Rocks” reaches the eight-share level (8.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 8.3 (6+). WNOR is now just two-tenths from the top spot. While Entercom urban AC WVKL is #1 the eighth consecutive month, “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” is a combined -2.3 in July/August (11.4 – 10.0 – 9.1, 6+). Prior to its present 9.1 (August 2019, 6+), WVKL last failed to log double-digits (6+) in January 2014 (9.8). WVKL was a combined -2.4 in March/April (12.9 – 11.6 – 10.5, 6+) and then added a +1.0 in May to 11.5 (6+). “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been the market pacesetter 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. In the market’s tight adult contemporary battle, Max Broadcast Group’s WVBW “92.9 The Wave” logs an increase of eight-tenths (3.4 – 4.2, ninth to sixth, 6+), while Entercom’s WWDE “101.3 2WD” is up a combined six-tenths in July/August (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.0, sixth to fifth, 6+). Repeating at #11, iHeartMedia alternative WNOH “Alt 105.3” has nearly tripled (+1.4) its 6+-stat in eight straight survey periods without a loss (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+). Eroding by -1.2 (5.0 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom’s WNVZ “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” drops from fifth to eighth with its lowest 6+-stat (3.8) since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6. Although off seven-tenths (3.2 – 2.5, 6+), Max Broadcast Group-owned WVHT “Hot 100” repeats at #10. An overall +1.2 in three consecutive up or flat trends (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 4.0, 6+), Entercom hot AC WPTE “94.9 The Point” falters by six-tenths to 4.0 (eighth to ninth, 6+). July’s 4.0 was the best 6+-showing for “The Point” since September 2017’s 4.4. Down by six-tenths as well in August is Max Broadcast Group’s country WGH-FM “97.3 The Eagle” (4.7 – 4.1, flat at #7, 6+).

Jacksonville Music Formats – Separated by nine-tenths of a share in July, the market’s two major adult contemporary outlets are now within six-tenths of each other. More to the point, in five consecutive upticks, Cox Media Group’s WEZI “Easy 102.9” is an overall +2.4 (4.5 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+) and rockets from seventh to third. A combined +1.1 in January/February, WEZI surrendered roughly half that increase with a March loss of six-tenths. This (6.9) represents the highest 6+-showing for “Easy” in its approximately four-year AC history. The station WEZI is chasing – Renda Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” – notches a +.3 (7.2 – 7.5, 6+) and inches up from third to second. August’s increase curtails four decreases in a row that resulted in a collective -1.5 (8.7 – 8.3 – 7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 by adult contemporary WEJZ is the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when it notched a 19.5 (6+). Segueing from second to fourth, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” is -2.1 in three straight setbacks (8.6 – 8.1 – 7.3 – 6.5, 6+). After a March-only stay at #1, “The Eagle” shifted to a second-place tie in April; progressed to a first-place tie in May; and had sole possession of first-place in June. WJGL’s April loss of six-tenths interrupted three upticks in succession that resulted in a +1.6 (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+). Meanwhile, co-owned urban contemporary WJGL-HD2 drops one-half share (2.1 – 1.6, #15 to #16, 6+). Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Gator Country” is a combined +1.2 in July/August (3.5 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+) and advances from ninth to eighth. This time last month, iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “99.1 Jacksonville’s Country”; urban contemporary cluster-mate WJBT “93.3 The Beat”; and Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” were deadlocked in fourth-place (6.6, 6+). All three are down in August with WQIK taking the biggest hit, plummeting -1.2 to 5.4 (seventh), its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 4.5. Both WAPE and WJBT were up six-tenths in July but they each regress by seven-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and are tied again – this time at #5. Thus, they have identical (6.0 – 6.6 – 5.9, 6+) June – July – August profiles. In advance of the July sweep, WAPE had been an overall -1.3 in three straight down or flat moves (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.0 – 6.0, 6+) with June’s 6.0 its weakest 6+-stat since 5.2 in “Holiday” 2018. Meanwhile, “The Beat” – which was +1.4 in June – had its best showing (6.6, July 2019, 6+) since May 2017’s 7.2.

Locked on .3 (6+) in June and July, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” picks up one-tenth to .4 (#22, 6+). After posting a .1 (6+) in August 2018, iHeartMedia-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” has been a “no-show” in the subsequent 13 ratings periods.

Returning the two-tenths it picked up in July (2.9 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN remains in tenth-place.

West Palm Beach Music Formats – This market’s first eight August 2019 finishers are either up or flat from July 2019, with each station in the top four gaining a minimum of one-half share (6+). Leading the way in that category is iHeartMedia-owned adult contemporary WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5,” which roars back from July’s -.8 with an August +1.0 (7.2 – 6.4 – 7.4, third to second, 6+). Whereas this (7.4, August 2019) is the best 6+-showing for “Kool” since July 2016’s 7.5, the 6.4 (6+) in July 2019 was its softest since March (6.4, as well). Meanwhile, Hubbard Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” craters by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, second to third, 6+). When “Sunny” gained one-tenth in July, it suspended three straight decreases that accounted for an overall -1.7 (8.2 – 7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, 6+). Prior to its current 5.1 (6+), “Sunny” last fell below a six-share in November 2018 (5.0, 6+). A collective -2.2 in three straight decreases (5.9 – 5.0 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting urban AC WMBX “X-102.3” answers with a +.8 to 4.5 (sixth to fourth, 6+). April’s +.6 took WMBX to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2. Up six-tenths and advancing from #12 to #11, iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” logs a (6+ West Palm Beach) share between 2.0 – 2.6 the fourth time in a row (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.6, 6+). With an August +.5 to 8.3 (6+), Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF pulls the plug on four successive downturns that led to a whopping -3.4 (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+). Furthermore, “Variety from the 90s and Now” is #1 the eighth time in a row. July’s 7.8 was its lowest 6+-share – and first time below an eight-share (6+) – since “Holiday” 2016 (7.7). Conversely, WRMF logged a +2.0 in March to 11.2, its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Three drops in succession by WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF led to a -1.0 (2.7 – 2.5 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), but “WAY-FM Uplifting – Upbeat – Real” ends the slide with a one-tenth increase to 1.8 (#15 to #14, 6+). Without a loss the past three reports for a net gain of three-tenths (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WKGR “GATER 98.7” (fourth to ninth) sputters by seven-tenths to 3.3, its lowest 6+-stat since February 2016 (3.3, as well). Despite being +1.7 via three straight up or flat trends (2.0 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Spanish contemporary cluster-mate WRLX “Mia 92.1” backslides from sixth to seventh.

Greensboro Music Formats – The market’s two powerhouse country stations log strong (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 improvements – but – they swap places. After being without an increase the past three reports for an overall loss of one-half share (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” erases the shortfall with a +.8 to 6.0 (eighth to sixth, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). With a May through July topline of 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 (6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” follows with a gain of six-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and continues at #7. In three straight sweeps without an increase, WTQR was a cumulative -1.0 (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+), but erased 70% of that deficit in May with a +.7 to 5.7 (6+). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” cancelled out January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Over the course of the last 16 sweeps (June 2018 through August 2019), WTQR has prevailed over WPAW ten times (June 2018, July, August, September, October, November, “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, May, and July); WPAW has come out on top five times (December 2018, February 2019, March, April, and August; and the two were tied in June 2019 (5.3, 6+). Five straight positive spikes by iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ have netted +2.3 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.8, steady at #9, 6+). In June, “105.7 – Man Up” reached the four-share level (4.1, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 4.0. This marks the third time this calendar year (March, June, and now in August) that Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” is #1 (8.8 – 9.5, +.7, second to first, 6+). Its eight (6+) fluctuations in 2019 are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); +1.1 (May); +.5 (June); -1.0 (July); and +.7 (August). Prior to its March stay at #1, WSMW last reached #1 in August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Occupying the top spot the other five months in 2019 is co-owned urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School,” which slips to second (9.5 – 9.3, -.2, 6+). April’s increase of six-tenths curtailed five straight declines that resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). WQMG’s consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) was snapped at 26 in January; it has been within 9.1 – 9.9 (6+) range ever since. Even though iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG craters by -1.5 to 6.9 (6+), “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, and Today” remains in third-place. A combined +.5 in June/July (7.9 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+) WMAG has its lowest 6+-stat (6.9) in exactly one year (6.8, 6+, August 2018. Off six-tenths (3.5 – 2.9, #11 to #12, 6+), co-owned CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss FM – All The Hits” slips below a three-share (2.9, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 2.8.

Spoken-Word Formats – While it repeats at #7, Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” follows July’s -1.1 with an August loss of one-tenth to 6.2, its lowest 6+-stat since February’s 5.9. Down one-half share in July, Red WolfBroadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” is up one-tenth (.5 – .6, 6+) and gains one ranker (#15 to #14). After being a “no-show” in June 2018, iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” has logged a .1 (6+) in each of the subsequent 15survey periods (#18 to #16, 6+).

Hartford Music Formats – A collective -1.5 in six straight down or flat trends (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting alternative WMRQ “Radio 104.1” applies the brakes with a +1.0 to 4.1 and continues in tenth-place. Co-owned Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2, which was without an increase the past survey periods and -1.0 in that stretch (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.6, 6+), improves by six-tenths to 2.2 (flat at #11, 6+). Prior to July, the last time WMRQ-HD2 fell below a two-share (6+) was May 2018 (1.9). A combined -.4 in June/July (6.4 – 6.3 – 6.0, 6+), classic rock cluster-mate WDRC-FM (eighth to fourth) erupts with a +.9 to 6.9, the highest 6+-stat for “102.9 The Whale” since it flipped to classic rock in January 2015. The station’s previous best was in March 2014 (7.0, 6+), when WDRC-FM was classic hits-oldies. By gaining one-tenth to 9.5 (6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH ends a June/July slide that accounted for a -1.4 (10.8 – 10.4 – 9.4, 6+). Moreover, “Lite 100.5” is #1 the 38thconsecutive time. Nine of its recent (6+) shifts include: -.8 (November 2018); +1.8 (December); -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February; -1.0 (March); -1.3 (April); +1.0 (May); and -1.0 (July). The +5.6 in “Holiday” 2018 was to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017). Prior to slipping to 9.8 in April, “Lite” was in double-digits (6+) in 30 of the previous 32 sweeps. Following three straight reports without a loss that netted +1.9 (5.3 – 5.7 – 7.2 – 7.2, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” spirals by -1.1 to 6.1 (6+) and drifts from third to eighth. July’s 7.2 was its best 6+-showing since May 2018’s 7.7. On the heels of July’s +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-share since August 2017’s 8.3, co-owned WWYZ surrenders more than half that bounty (7.2, -.7, 6+) but repeats in the runner-up slot. In advance of July’s increase, “Country 92.5” was an overall -1.0 in five consecutive negative or neutral sweeps (7.7 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+).

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Joe Walsh Says He’ll Challenge Trump for GOP Nomination. As teased on Friday (8/23), former Illinois GOP congressman and talk radio host Joe Walsh officially announced on Sunday that he will begin a GOP primary campaign to challenge President Trump for the GOP nomination. Walsh hosts the 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight program on the Salem Radio Network. It’s not clear right now when he’ll leave his radio show, but it’s a safe bet it will be very soon. As a politically conservative broadcasting company, the SRN and Salem Media Group brass can’t be thrilled about Walsh’s decision. However, conventional wisdom says Walsh has no chance to take the nomination from Trump since the president enjoys overwhelming support from Republicans. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, weighing in on the syndicated host’s announcement states, “The extraordinary amount of press surrounding this development illustrates just how powerful talk media has become during the age of Trump. We all know that talk radio and cable news/talk TV have been consistently influential platforms in the post-Fairness Doctrine decades. However, the sheer measurable power this bubbling influence has amassed in the age of Trump is jaw dropping to say the least. Regardless of your opinion of Donald Trump, the fact that the president of the United States is a huge talk media fan and constantly demonstrates it through his use of social media, shout-outs, and political appointments has been the most significant booster rocket imaginable in elevating talk media beyond junior status to equal-if-not-greater influence and prestige as the so-called mainstream media. Look at the amount of attention his tweets garnered for Wayne Allyn Root last week. The fact that Joe Walsh – a radio talk show host with a microscopically short resume of elective service – could get so much more coverage than former governors William Weld and Mark Sanford sends an important message. Radio and TV talk personalities are, in a growing number of cases, on the same level as major elected officials. In an industry where anecdotal qualitative influence is every bit as important as murky quantitative metrics, everyone in the talk business owes a debt of gratitude to President Trump. All I can say is, Mr. President, ‘Keep listening and watching!’” Editor’s Note: An earlier version of this story stated FOX News had ignored the story. Actually, FOX News published this story on Sunday and devoted reports on FOX News Channel to the story.

Neal Boortz Ends WSB-AM, Atlanta Commentary. Six years after retiring from his daily radio talk show, radio legend Neal Boortz does his last commentary feature for his old flagship station WSB-AM/WSBB-FM. In his final piece for the station, Boortz says he looks forward to paying less attention to the news because he believes the country is headed for disaster due to young people knowing more about LGBTQ history than American history. He says, “I’m going to just enjoy my friends, family and my travels while the rest of you see if you can pull this country back from the brink.” Hear his commentary here.

LaDona Harvey Re-Ups with KOGO, San Diego. Longtime station personality LaDona Harvey signs a new contract with iHeartMedia’s news/talk KOGO, San Diego to continue as morning personality through 2022. Harvey served as news anchor and then midday talk host before being partnered with Ted Garcia in morning drive in 2014. Station program director Brian Long says, “When we re-launched Newsradio 600 KOGO, it was clear that LaDona had the versatility needed to shift from a popular local news/talk host to become a strong morning news personality without missing a beat. LaDona and Ted Garcia together every morning share a chemistry that connects with San Diegans and serves to entertain and inform KOGO listeners every weekday morning.”

New Affiliate Stations for ‘Our American Stories.’ The nationally syndicated “Our American Stories” radio program announces the program is being added to the program schedules at stations including: iHeartMedia’s KHOW, Denver; Bustos Media’s KVOI, Tucson; American General Media’s KVEC, San Luis Obispo; Entercom’s KNSS-AM/FM, Wichita; and Kensington Digital Media’s WRSW-AM, Warsaw, Indiana. Lee Habeeb is host of the program and CEO of American Private Radio, producer and syndicator of the show. Habeeb comments that he’s “grateful for the new markets and the opportunity to bring more listeners together in a positive listening environment. These stations, along with our 210 other affiliate partners are a testament that listeners want more than just political talk. They want a positive experience that radio does really well, which is just what ‘Our American Stories’ delivers.

Ken Lagana Named EVP of Digital Sales for Entercom. Digital sales executive Ken Lagana is appointed to the newly created position of executive vice president of digital sales for Entercom, effective September 10. Lagana was most recently head of sales and marketing for podcast technology firm Megaphone. In this new role, Lagana will lead sales strategy for the company’s digital business, including RADIO.COM, and its newest podcast acquisitions – Cadence13 and Pineapple Street Studios. Entercom chief digital officer J.D. Crowley says, “I have known Ken a long time and have immense respect for the large digital businesses he’s helped build. Ken has an incredible reputation in the industry for creating innovative programs at scale that solve challenges for marketers. We’re excited to welcome him to the team as we continue to help shape the rapidly growing digital audio marketplace.”

Envision and Radio PA State Network Partner for Sports Report. This partnership between Envision Networks and Radio PA State Network will result in EnvisionVirtualServices Sports Reports being distributed to more than 50 radio stations throughout the Keystone State. The feature his presented by sports reporter Andrew Scaglione who delivers twice-daily reports (and one report on Saturday). Scaglione says, “The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has such a rich sports history spanning from the high school level all the way up to the pros. It’s a privilege to provide daily sports reports to stations around the state and keep folks up to date on Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, State College, Williamsport, and everywhere in between.”

Monday Memo: YouTube Tweaks. YouTube is a powerful platform and it’s real crowded. Every second, one hour of video is uploaded. If you just “throw something up there,” you’re probably not capitalizing on the benefits of YouTube. Consultant Holland Cooke suggests that before your video joins that torrent, take a look at some valuable tips here.

U.S.-China Trade War/G7 Summit, Hong Kong Protests, Joe Walsh to Challenge Trump in Primary/2020 Presidential Race, Israel Strikes Iranian Targets, and Andrew Luck Retires from NFL Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The tariff battle between the U.S. and China, the world’s financial markets’ reactions to them, and the meetings that took place at the G7 in France over the weekend; the protests against Chinese aggression in Hong Kong; talk host and former congressman Joe Walsh announces his Republican presidential bid and the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the Israeli military strikes against Iranian targets near Damascus, Syria; and the shocking retirement from pro football by Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Forever Media to Buy Lebanon, Pennsylvania Duo. The stations – news/talk WLBR-AM and adult contemporary WQIC-FM “Soft Rock 100.1” – are being sold by family-ownedLebanon Broadcasting Company to Forever Media. The deal gives Forever 64 stations in 11 markets. Lebanon president Lynn Deppen says, “WLBR/WQIC has been in the Etter family for over 70 years. Since my sons have independent careers, I made the decision to sell to Forever Media. Forever Media is an excellent company consisting of community-oriented radio stations. They empower local managers with key decision-making authority and encourage local community interests to be a factor in any decision.” Greg Guy of Patrick Communications represented the seller in this deal.

Barr Bids Buck Bon Voyage. Pictured above is Premiere Networks personality Buck Sexton (left) with U.S. Attorney General William Barr (right) at Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC. last Thursday night (8/22). Sexton, host of “The Buck Sexton Show,” had an impromptu going away celebration at the hotel as he leaves Washington to move to New York City. Barr made an appearance to wish Sexton well as he returns to his home state.

TALKERS News Notes. Sports media personality Josh Innes is launching a podcast. The former KBME, Houston and WIP, Philadelphia sports talk host tellsForbes’ Jonathan Berr that he intends to target sports fans in Philly and Houston with separate shows for each market. He says he understands that there are a ton of podcasts out there and that compared to big stations, he’s a small business. He says he plans to target local advertisers who can’t afford to advertise on major market radio stations…..Chicago media writer Robert Federreports that Vivianne Linouis promoted to executive producer of WGN, Chicago’s Steve Cochran morning show. The Tribune Broadcasting station promoted Mary Sandberg Boyle from that position to director of news and operations back in May. Linou joined WGN as a producer back in March after having previously served with Entercom’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WFCS-FM…..Alpha Media’s Portland sports talk KXTG-AM drops the FM translator simulcast of its programming. The station signaled the end of the broadcast on K275CH with the re-branding of its social media accounts that eliminate the 102.9 FM frequency…..Saga Communications swaps FM translators as a simulcast of news/talk WGAN-AM, Portland. It goes from W288CU, PORTLAND at 105.5 FM to W253DA at 98.5 FM…..ESPN launches a new college football podcast featuring lead analysts Kirk Herbstreit and David Pollack plus SportsCenter’s Kevin Negandhi. The “ESPN College Football Podcast- Herbie & Pollack” publish three times per week through the season with Negandhi hosting all episodes. Herbstreit will co-host on Mondays and Pollack will do so on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. West Palm Beach country outlet WIRK names Moriah Daniels midday personality. Daniels began her radio career eight years ago as an intern for the then-CBS Radio station, now owned and operated by Hubbard Radio. WIRK operations manager and brand/content director Bruce Logan states, “As a program director, there is nothing better than inheriting great talent! When I started the search to transition ‘New Country 103.1’ from a voice-tracked show to a live and local show in West Palm Beach, I was thrilled to find Moriah sitting mere feet from my office dutifully serving our sales team. She expressed interest, I went through the entire search process and in the end, there was no one I’d rather have as WIRK’s At-Work host.”…..Air personality Pat Gallagher returns to the Madison market to assume the morning show duties on Mid-West Family’s alternative WRIS “The Resistance.” Company VP of programming Randy Hawke says, “Pat helped define alternative music in Madison. It’s so important to have him here and be a part of it.” Gallagher worked in alternative radio in Madison for 27 years before joining Mid-West Family Madison for a brief time then heading to WCNR, Charlottesville, Virginia to do mornings…..Radio personality and doo wop enthusiast Ron Farber appeared on WMTR-AM, Morristown, New Jersey over the weekend as guest and co-host on the station’s “Doo Wop Drive” program from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on August 23. It was a homecoming of sorts as Faber hosted the Friday night doo wop show from 2005 through 2008…..Air talent Scotty Kay joins the new morning program at Entercom’s country WUSN, Chicago. Kay was most recently on air at Cumulus Media’s CHR KLIF-FM, Dallas “HOT 93.3.” He joins morning show hosts Katie Bright, Jason Pullman, and Erin Creedon on the program…..In Los Angeles, Doug “Sluggo” Roberts is named assistant program director and music director for classic rock KLOS. Roberts currently hosts weekend programs on SiriusXM’s “1St Wave” and “Lithium” channels. He’s also worked at alternative KROQ and adult hits KABC-FM in Los Angeles.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — YouTube has over a billion active monthly users, almost one-third of all people on the Internet. If YouTube was a country it would be the 3rd most populous in the world, behind China and India, bigger than the USA. And…

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — In these dog days of Summer when everyone seems to be on vacation, phones can be slow. Try this, which lit up the lines when I was guest-hosting “The Jim Bohannon Show,” and has never failed any of the hosts I coach.

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Monday Memo: Your Donald Trump Elevator Speech? In these dog days of summer when everyone seems to be on vacation, phones can be slow. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke invites you to rip off a call-in topic that he says has never failed. See it here.

TALKERS News Notes. San Diego sports talk personality Scott Kaplantells KUSI-TV, San Diego personality Paul Rudy that his recent negotiations with the owners of Mexican radio station XEPRS-AM, Rosarito to return the sports talk format – “The Mighty 1090” – back to the station has failed, at least for now. Kaplan, co-host of the “Scott and BR” program, says after a lot of number-crunching discussions, his attempt to lead a new company that could operate the sports talk radio station isn’t being realized because the numbers show it to be an uphill battle from a financial standpoint. As you recall, Broadcast Company of the Americas lost its lease of the signal after it was unable to keep up the payments to the Mexican owners. Still, Kaplan says his sports talk show continues to be available on digital platforms, including TuneIn and YouTube…..WEEI, Boston staffer Alex Reimer announces he’s exiting the Entercom-owned sports media outlet after a three-year stint to become the director of communications for Massachusetts State Senator Eric Lesser. Reimer has been a featured personality on the station’s radio programs as well as a writer for WEEI.com…..Entercom’s Washington, DC station group is celebrating National Radio Day tomorrow (8/20) with live broadcasts from its District Live studios at 1015 Half Street in Southeast Washington, DC. Four radio programs will be broadcast live for listeners to watch, including the afternoon drive Chad Dukes program – heard on sports talk WJFK-FM – from 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm…..ADX Communications is adding WEBY-AM and translator W256DL at 99.1 FM to the multicast of its sports talk “ESPN Pensacola.” The station emanates from WYCT-HD2 and is also being added to the company’s WYCT-HD4. The station is heard on translator W233CM at 94.5 FM but that will cease after September…..Talk show host Jeremy Hanson is exiting the libertarian-themed digital platform MOJO 5-0. He tells TALKERS magazine he’s had a good relationship with operator Ron Phillips but that his show as “outgrown the platform.” His program remains available via Spreaker.com and his website www.ujhlive.com.

Entercom Launches RADIO.com Sports Digital Network. The new digital, subscription-free sports platform from Entercom debuts today (8/19) with live programming and podcast content. RADIO.COM Sports Digital Network includes daily live shows such as “Home & Home with Ross Tucker and Dave Briggs” (8:00 am to 11:00 am ET), “Swings & Mrs.” with Cody and Jennifer Decker(1:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET); and “You Better You Bet” with Nick Kostos (6:00 pm to 10:00 pm ET). It also makes available new podcasts including, “Prevent Defense” and “Love @ First Fight.” The programming is available in both audio and video.

Salem Media Group to Sell 20 Signals to Relevant Radio for $17 Million. This deal delivers 20 radio signals – a mix of stations and translators – from Salem Media Group to Christian operator Relevant Radio for $16.95 million. The signals are located in 10 markets across the country. They include: WAFS-AM, Atlanta; WWDJ-AM, Boston; KTNO-AM, Dallas; KTEK-AM, Houston; KRDY-AM, San Antonio; WSDZ-AM, St. Louis; KXFN-AM, St. Louis; and WHKZ-AM, Youngstown. This deal comes after Salem CEO Ed Atsinger’s recent statement that the company would seek to sell assets if the moves aligned with the company’s long-term strategy.

Michael Harrison: The Notion of “Mass Appeal” Was a Temporary 20th Century Construct! TALKERS founder Michael Harrison was a guest on Holland Cooke’s “The Big Picture” television program this past Friday evening (8/16) on RT America to discuss the subject of Woodstock’s 50th anniversary. Legendary radio programmer Jay Clark (SiriusXM Satellite Radio, WABC, etc.) was a guest panelist as well. Cooke asked Harrison if he thought that popular music would ever be able to return to mass appeal status via radio as it did back in the day of the 1969 iconic festival. Harrison replied, “‘Mass appeal’ is a term we really have to do some thinking about in this modern world of the 21st century digital era. Maybe ‘mass appeal’ was just a temporary construct of the 20th century because I don’t think there was such a thing before electronic media. The country and world were very fractionalized in the 19th century and certainly earlier than that. Maybe these notions of the ‘general public’ and the ‘mass media’ were a temporary juncture in the evolution of media and society from the 19th century when it took forever for everybody to be on the same page because it wasn’t instantaneous by far and now when everybody has their own page. I don’t know if that’s the natural way of homo sapiens communication. We are going through a major transition in which the human nervous system is being rewired by the way we communicate in the digital era.” To view the entire segment please click here.

SRN Presents Christian Films Series. Pictured above is Salem Radio Network v.p./News & Talk Programming Tom Tradup (left) with Christian filmmaker Alex Kendrick (right) during a break while recording the network’s week-long special series on Christian films. Kendrick directed and stars in the newest Sony/Affirm Films production Overcomer that opens nationwide this Friday. Others profiled by SRN include Cameron Arnett, the “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Miami Vice” star who has devoted his career to sharing Christianity with others.

Epstein Suicide Ruling, U.S.-China Trade War, 2020 Presidential Race, Peaceful Hong Kong Protest, Portland Antifa-Proud Boys Clash, Kabul Wedding Massacre, Russian Nuke Weapon Test, and Woodstock Anniversary Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The official ruling that the prison death of accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein was a suicide; the economic effects of the trade war between the U.S. and China; the Democrats hoping to challenge President Trump in 2020; the peaceful protest in Hong Kong; the violent clash between members of the Proud Boys and Antifa during a march in Portland; the Islamic State-credited bombing of a wedding in Kabul, Afghanistan that killed more than 60; the explosion that rocked a Russian missile test and killed five scientists; and the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock festival were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. On-air pro Dave O’Brien is the new morning show host at Entercom’s classic rock KQMT, Denver “99.5 The Mountain,” effective August 27. He was most recently morning host at Emmis Communications’ country WLHK, Indianapolis. He says, “I’m very excited to join the talented team at Entercom Denver and can’t wait to start rocking Denver awake every morning on ‘99.5 The Mountain.’ I’m eager to embrace the Colorado lifestyle and I’m more than ready to return to my classic rock roots.”…..Programming pro Brad Austin exits his role with Forever Media as corporate director of programming. He also had been serving as program director and afternoon drive host for the company’s country WXCY, Havre de Grace, Maryland. Austin had been serving in a similar capacity with Delmarva Broadcasting prior to its being acquired by Forever Media…..iHeartMedia hip hop WWPR, New York “Power 105.1” announces the lineup for its annual live music event, “Powerhouse,” presented by AT&T and produced by Live Nation taking place on October 26 at Prudential Center in Newark. Performers will include: Migos, Meek Mill, Lil Baby, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Da Baby, Davido, Megan thee Stallion, Saweetie, Polo G, Lil Tjay, with more to be announced.

Since reappearing in print several months ago, RadiOhio sports talk outlet WBNS-FM was 4.7 (April, 6+); down one-tenth to 4.6 (May, 6+); and off seven-tenths in June to 3.9 (#9, 6+). In July, “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” is once again unlisted.

Returning in full June’s increase of four-tenths, all-news sibling KCBS-AM drops from fourth to fifth. KCBS-AM was -1.9 in three straight March through May decreases and has an April 2019 through July 2019 topline of 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 – 5.2 (6+).

Three straight dips by KQED accounted for a collective -1.1 (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 6.0, 6+) but the Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk facility picks up three-tenths in July to 6.3 (6+) and carries on in third-place. In June, KQED slipped from second to third, after an April-only stay at #1. Stuck on .9 (6+) in March and April and then on .7 (6) in May and June, San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW erupts with a +.6 to 1.3 (#27 to #24, 6+).

Spoken-Word Formats – While it remains in ninth-place, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” is an overall -1.8 in four straight downturns (6.5 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), basically neutralizing three successive up or flat trends that netted a +1.9 (4.6 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+). This is the 20th time in a row Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” (1.9 – 1.8, -.1, unchanged at #16, 6+) has recorded a 6+ AQH share between 1.0 – 1.9; June marked the first time it reached 1.9 in that timeframe.

Repeating in the runner-up slot, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC follows June’s gain of eight-tenths with a loss of three-tenths (7.8 – 7.5, 6+); “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” was +1.0 in January and -.6 in February.

Even though it is off a combined half-share in June/July (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+), WIBC cluster-mate WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” advances from #17 to #16. It has a nine-tenths advantage over iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station,” which has lost a total of eight-tenths in six successive sweeps without an increase (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+) but progresses from #19 to #18. Following 16 consecutive sweeps of logging either a .1 or .2 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WXNT disappeared in June; “CBS Sports AM 1430” resurfaces in July though with a .1 (#22, 6+).

Having lost seven-tenths in June (4.6 – 3.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI rebounds with a +1.0 to 4.9 (tenth to eighth, 6+).

Indianapolis Music Formats – Not only is Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK #1 the seventh consecutive month, “Classic Hits 104.5” chalks up a robust +1.4 to 11.1 (6+), obliterating its May/June -.5 (10.2 – 9.9 – 9.7, 6+). Furthermore, 11.2 is the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing April’s 10.2. Among WJJK’s 2019 shifts are: +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); and +1.4 (July). After spending six straight sweeps on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January 2019. A combined +1.1 in June/July (6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2, 6+), Emmis’ WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank” jumps from sixth to fourth. The last time “Hank” reached the seven-share threshold was May 2018 (7.1). It is three-tenths behind Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WFMS “95.5 The Country Station,” which has a May – June – July topline of 7.4 – 7.6 – 7.5 (second to third, 6+). The day after the June sweep commenced (5/24), WFMS’ CHR sibling, WYRG “Energy 93.9,” flipped to rock WNDX. In June and July, “93.9-X” responds by nearly tripling (+2.3) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 2.8 – 3.6, 6+, 6+) and has jumped from #18 (May) to #16 (June) to #12 (July). After being off six-tenths in four consecutive down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.2, 6+), “Energy” gained one-tenth in May. By improving four-tenths in July to 7.8 (third to second, 6+), Emmis adult contemporary WYXB “B-105.7” ends a May/June slide that accounted for a -1.4 (8.8 – 8.2 – 7.4, 6+). April’s +1.9 (to 8.8, 6+) suspended three negative moves in succession that resulted in a -9.5 (16.4 – 7.6 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+). On the heels of losing one-half share in June, iHeartMedia-owned WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” falters by another eight-tenths in July (7.2 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+), skidding from fourth to seventh. “Q-95” hadn’t been below a six-share (6+) since March 2017’s 5.8. A May loss of four-tenths by WTLC-FM “106.7 Indy’s R&B Leader” curtailed four successive up or flat trends that yielded eight-tenths (4.6 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). The Radio One urban AC rebounded with a one-half share increase only to drop seven-tenths in July (5.5 – 4.8, eighth to ninth, 6+). Regressing by seven-tenths as well is iHeartMedia-owned WOLT “Alt 103.3 Indy’s Alternative” (3.6 – 2.9, #12 to #14, 6+).

Five Milwaukee sports talk outlets combine for a 2.3 (July 2019, 6+), down one-tenth from June. Leading the field is iHeartMedia’s WRNW “The Game,” which has tripled its 6+-stat since April (.3 – .6 – .8 – 9, #17 to #16, 6+). In late-November (2018), CHR WRNW “Now” became sports talk “The Game” and this (.9) is the best 6+-stat on that frequency since 2.8 (December 2018). Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” and Entercom-owned WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” were tied in May (1.0, 6+) and again in June (.6, 6+). The ties are broken in July though as WKTI is up one-tenth to .7 (#19 to #18, 6+), halting three straight winless sweeps in which it lost roughly half (-.7) its 6+ audience (1.3 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .6, 6+). Meanwhile, WSSP is a collective -1.0 in five straight dips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .6 – .4, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). WRNW cluster-mate WOKY “The Big 920” posts a .2 (6+) for the seventh time in the last nine sweeps (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, #24 to #22, 6+). After popping on in November 2018 with a .5 (6+), Good Karma Brands’ WAUK disappeared from print the next seven ratings periods. It returned in June with a .2 (6+) but drops one-tenth to .1 (#24 to #28, 6+).

In five straight negative or neutral moves (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk outlet WUWM is a collective -1.8 but is anchored at #13. This directly follows three reports in a row without a loss that netted a +1.2 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Off one-half share as a result of five straight negative or neutral moves (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 -.8, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD slips from #16 to #17.

Spoken-Word Formats – While this is the sixth time in a row that Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW hasn’t had an increase and is -1.2 in that stretch (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9, 6+), “New Jersey 101.5” is #1 the sixth successive month. After logging a 3.0 (6+) in May, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR is stuck on 2.9 in June and July (#15 to #17, 6+). Cumulus Media news/talk WABC started 2019 by recording a 1.0 (6+) in January, February, and March. Since then, its April through July topline is: .7 – .6 – .7 – .9 (#27 to #25, 6+).

An improvement of three-tenths by Entercom sports talk WFAN takes the Yankees flagship to a four-share (3.7 – 4.0, steady at #10, 6+) for the first time since October 2018 (4.2). Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York,” which added seven-tenths in May, is down a combined nine-tenths in June/July (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.6, #21 to #23, 6+).

Tied with WINS at #21 is WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM, which is off six-tenths in three consecutive setbacks (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, #22 to #21, 6+).

Middlesex Music Formats – As a result of three positive spikes in succession (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6, 6+), rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” is an overall +.9 and progresses from #13 to #11. This is its best 6+ performance in Middlesex-Somerset-Union since November 2018 (3.6, as well). WQHT’s format rival, iHeartMedia-owned WKTU, posts a gain of three-tenths to 3.1 (#17 to #15, 6+), thus suspending three down or flat moves in a row that led to a loss of two-tenths (3.0 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). Advancing from eighth to sixth, Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” is up one full-share in three consecutive positive or neutral trends (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4, 6+). Four successive improvements by Entercom hot AC WNEW yield a +1.6 (3.4 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+) as “NEW 102.7” continues in fifth-place. Meanwhile, its former hot AC competitor, WPLJ, is a combined -3.4 in June/July (3.8 – 2.0 – .4, 6+) and fades from #22 to #30. Cumulus Media sold WPLJ to Educational Media Foundation, which shifted the station from hot AC to contemporary Christian on May 31. On the heels of June’s gain of eight-tenths (5.8 – 6.6, 6+), iHeartMedia New York mainstream CHR WHTZ forfeits seven-tenths to 5.9 (6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. When “Z-100” faltered by four-tenths in May, it halted four straight improvements that netted +1.9 (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+). Co-owned urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1” is off an overall one-half share in three sweeps in a row without an increase (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.2, #11 to #14, 6+). Down or flat the third straight time as well is Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “Mega 97.9,” which has faltered by seven-tenths since April (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.0 – 30, #13 to #16, 6+).

In three straight decreases (5.5 – 4.8 – 4.2 – 2.7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned sports talk WGFX had its 6+ AQH-share sliced approximately in half (-2.8), but “104.5 The Zone” picks up two-tenths to 2.9 (6+) and continues at #14. Prior to June, the last time WGFX fell below a three-share (6+) was July 2017 (2.7, as well). Meanwhile, Cromwell Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” is a combined -1.1 in three straight down or flat moves (1.9 – 1.1 – .8 – .8, #22 to #21, 6+).

Even though iHeartMedia Boston hybrid news – talk WBZ-AM is off by three-tenths in three consecutive Providence reports without an increase (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), “News Radio 1030” advances from #18 to #16.

Providence Music Formats – Albeit unchanged at #6, iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WSNE vaporizes June’s -.7 with a July increase twice that size (4.3 – 5.7, +1.4, 6+). Prior to June’s loss, “Coast 93.3” was a collective +1.2 in three consecutive improvements (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). This is its best 6+-performance in just over two years (June 2017, 5.7, as well). Despite dropping four-tenths (10.2 – 9.8, 6+), co-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” is #1 the third month in a row. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. Locked on 7.4 (6+) in May and June, Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music 92 PRO-FM” (flat at #5) sputters by six-tenths to 6.8, its lowest 6+-stat since January (6.8, as well). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia Boston’s similarly-programmed WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” is up a collective half-share via five successive up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6, #13 to #12, 6+). Also in the CHR arena, Townsquare Media’s WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” sees its 6+-stat erode by two-thirds (-2.8) in six negative or neutral reports in succession (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.4, 6+) and drops from #11 to #14. Immediately in advance of this stretch, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Cumulus Media rhythmic CHR WWKX “Hot 106” has lost six-tenths in June/July (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.8, ninth to tenth, 6+) and is below a two-share (6+) for the first time since October 2018 (1.8, as well). Disappearing from print in July are Red Wolf Broadcasting Spanish tropical WKKB “Latina 100.3,” which posted a 1.2 in June (#16, 6+) and classic hits-oldies sibling WSKP “Good Times … Great Oldies” (.8, #19, June 2019, 6+).

Norfolk

Spoken-Word Formats – Highly noteworthy here is the return to print of Max Media stations that had been unlisted the past three years. Included in that group is sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1,” which has a July 2019 1.2 (#16, 6+); its internet stream appears with a .1 (#19, 6+).

Norfolk Music Formats – Other Max Media outlets listed again after a hiatus of exactly three years (July 2016) are country WGH-FM “97.3 The Eagle” (4.7, #7, 6+); adult contemporary WVBW “92.9 The Wave” (3.4, #9, 6+); CHR WVHT “Hot 100” (3.2, #10, 6+); urban AC/talk hybrid WGH-AM “1310 The Power” (.1, #19, 6+); and the internet streams of WGH-FM and WVBW (both at .1, #19, 6+). Among stations affected by the reappearance of Max Media stations from a ranker standpoint are iHeartMedia alternative WNOH “Alt 105.3” and Entercom hot AC WPTE “94.9 The Point.” Notwithstanding that it has nearly tripled (+1.4) its 6+-stat in seven straight survey periods without a loss (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+), “Alt 105.3” exits the top ten (#8 to #11). Meanwhile, “94.9 The Point,” an overall +1.2 in three consecutive up or flat trends (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 4.0, 6+) backslides from seventh to eighth. Moreover, this (4.0) is the best 6+-showing for “The Point” since September 2017’s 4.4. Setting the pace the seventh consecutive month, WPTE’s urban AC cluster-mate – WVKL “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” – nonetheless spirals by -1.4 (11.4 – 10.0, 6+). WVKL was a combined -2.4 in March/April (12.9 – 11.6 – 10.5, 6+) and then added a +1.0 in May to 11.5 (6+). Just prior to logging a 10.5 this past April, WVKL had posted a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher 37 of 38 times. “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been on top 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. Following four successive positive or neutral moves that netted eight-tenths (7.4 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.2, 6+), Saga Communications-owned classic rock WAFX “106.9 The Fox” (second to third) surrenders a -1.2 to 7.0, its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 6.1.

Jacksonville

Spoken-Word Formats – Over and above pulling the plug on five consecutive down or flat sweeps that accounted for a collective -2.9 (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.5, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM (7.5 – 8.0, +.5, 6+) marches from second to first. Tied for the top spot in May, WOKV-FM 104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” had sole possession of first-place in January, February, and April.

Jacksonville Music Formats – A May/June mini-slide by Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE that resulted in a loss of nine-tenths concludes with a July improvement of eight-tenths to 4.3 (6+) as “99.9 Gator Country” enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Advancing from a fifth-place tie to a fourth-place tie with identical (6.0 – 6.6, +.6, 6+) June 2019 – July 2019 profiles are Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” and iHeartMedia urban contemporary WJBT “93.3 The Beat.” WAPE had been an overall -1.3 in three straight sweeps without an increase (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.0 – 6.0, 6+) with June’s 6.0 its weakest 6+-stat since 5.2 in “Holiday” 2018. Meanwhile, “The Beat” – +1.4 in June – has its best 6+-showing (6.6) since May 2017’s 7.2. Improving by six-tenths as well in July is iHeartMedia gospel WKSL-HD3, which erases June’s loss of six-tenths (2.9 – 2.3 – 2.9, #14 to #13, 6+). Prior to the June sweep, WKSL-HD3 had shown a net increase of seven-tenths in four straight positive or neutral sweeps (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+). The market’s adult contemporary battle tightens as the two principals are now separated by just nine-tenths of a share. Specifically, Renda Broadcasting’s WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” is a collective -1.5 in four setbacks in succession (8.7 – 8.3 – 7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2, second to third, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s WEZI “Easy 102.9” nets +1.8 in four consecutive bumps (4.5 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.3, 6+) and is anchored at #7. “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 by WEJZ is the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when WEJZ notched a 19.5. A combined +1.1 in January/February, WEZI surrendered roughly half that increase with a March loss of six-tenths. In three straight reports without an increase, Cox Media Group-owned WXXJ lost seven-tenths (3.1 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.4, 6+), but “X-106.5 Jacksonville’s Alternative” answers with a one-half share gain to 2.9 (6+) and continues at #13. On the strength of June’s +1.0, iHeartMedia-owned CHR WKSL crossed the five-share level (5.2, 6+) but “97.9 Kiss FM” craters by -1.4 to 3.8 (6+) and drops from eighth to tenth. In addition to being -1.3 in June/July (8.6 – 8.1 – 7.3, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” segues from first to second. After a March-only stay at #1, “The Eagle” shifted to a second-place tie in April; progressed to a first-place tie in May; and had sole possession of first-place in June. WJGL’s April loss of six-tenths interrupted three upticks in succession that resulted in a +1.6 (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+). Off nine-tenths in June/July (2.7 – 2.3 – 1.8, 6+), co-owned urban AC WOKV-HD2 drops from #14 to #16.

Co-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” posted a .1 (6+) in August 2018 but has been a “no-show” in the subsequent 12 ratings periods.

While it repeats at #10, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN is up two-tenths to 3.1 (6+), its best 6+-stat since March (3.1, as well).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – Adding one-half share to June’s +1.2 (2.0 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary WRLX “Mia 92.1” jumps from eighth to sixth. On top the seventh time in a row, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF “Variety from the 90s and Now” is nonetheless an overall -3.4 via four successive downturns (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+). This (7.8) is it lowest 6+-share – and first time below an eight-share (6+) – since “Holiday” 2016 (7.7). On the other hand, WRMF logged a +2.0 in March to 11.2, its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Having faltered by -1.0 in January, WRMF was frozen on 9.2 (6+) in January and February. Cluster-mate WIRK “South Florida’s New Country 103.1” is down seven-tenths in June/July (3.9 – 3.7 – 3.2, 6+), slipping from seventh to ninth. Regressing by eight-tenths (7.2 – 6.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned adult contemporary WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” segues from second to third. Whereas June’s 7.2 was the best 6+-showing for “Kool” since July 2016’s 7.5, this is its softest since March (6.4, as well). An overall -1.7 via three straight decreases (8.2 – 7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” applies the brakes with a one-tenth increase to 6.6 (6+) and leapfrogs “Kool” (third to second). In six straight positive spikes, iHeartMedia CHR WLDI was +1.6 (2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 4.1, 6+) and reached the four-share level (4.1, June 2019, 6+) for the first time since August 2018’s 4.0. In July, however, “WiLD 95.5 The Palm Beaches’ #1 Hit Music Station” forfeits one-tenth to 4.0 (6+) and carries on in fourth-place. Hubbard Broadcasting urban AC WMBX “X-102.3” is a collective -2.2 in three straight setbacks (5.9 – 5.0 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+) and dips from fourth to sixth. An April gain of six-tenths took WMBX to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2. While off a full-share in three drops in succession (2.7 – 2.5 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM Uplifting – Upbeat – Real” climbs from #16 to a tie at #15.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI – Here is unsolicited email from an advertiser – an auto parts retailer – on one of my client stations:

“At first I was skeptical about the advertising and whether or not I would see a benefit, but I figured I would try it. For a little while I wasn’t seeing any benefit to it, but like the sales rep had said, I waited. After 6 months I started to see a specific benefit from the advertising; people were coming in and saying they heard of the store on the radio! Five years later I’m still getting new customers that hear of my business on the radio. I would highly recommend this service to any business!”

If advertisers will volunteer kudos like that without the station asking, imagine the success stories you could tell if you bothered to ask!

Testimonial spots are THE best way to fill unsold avails.

Why:

What message do you send filling with Ad Council PSAs?

Retailers are curious what’s working for other retailers.

Clients who appear in testimonial spots perceive them as free advertising for their businesses.

Important: YOU should write the spot.

Why:

It’ll get done. Your client is busy. He/she will probably ask you to anyway.

You DO commercials, he sells auto parts.

Consider: 30s, roughly half-and-half their-message/your-message:

Client:

With the weather getting cooler, you might have some unwelcome company. Do you need “Pest Eviction,” from Thompson Exterminating?

I’m Chuck Thompson, and when I tell MY story, I tell it HERE. ConnectFM is never just on-in-the-background, so listeners HEAR my message.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Holland Cooke: Greatest Hits” an instant download available exclusively from Talkers Books. Click the ad banner on this page. And he hosts “The Big Picture” TV show on RT America. Read HC’s Monday Memo each week at Talkers.com, and follow him on Twitter @HollandCooke

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WARWICK, RI — This week Showcase Cinema at Warwick Mall is herding movie-goers into side-by-side theaters showing – at the same time – “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood:” here.

Credits for “The Ninth Film From Quentin Tarantino” include Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Al Pacino, and (in his final performance) the late Luke Perry. Those credits should also include the late, great 93KHJ.

“How we listened to the radio back then is different than the way we listen to the radio now.”

For decades, smart DJs and talk hosts and news people have used email to engage; and my June 17 column detailed techniques for THE most-important part of the message you email followers, the Subject line. ICYMI: here

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Cumulus Makes $50 Million Debt Prepayment. This latest debt payment by Cumulus Media is in the amount of $50 million and was funded by the net proceeds from the previously announced sale of KLOS-FM, Los Angeles to Meruelo Media that closed last week (7/17), plus cash on hand. Cumulus says, “With this prepayment, the Company has reduced its debt by approximately $250 million since emerging from Chapter 11 on June 4, 2018, bringing the Company’s total debt to approximately $1.05 billion.”

Monday Memo: Say What? Part Deux. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in this week’s Monday Memo about things you and your on-air talent should never say on the radio. From expressions that are dated to common English-language snafus, HC lists some of the most-often-heard mistakes that broadcasters should never make. See his column here.

WIBC-FM, Indianapolis Adds Another Hour to ‘Hammer and Nigel’ Show. The Indianapolis Business Journal published a big piece on WIBC-FM, Indianapolis’s afternoon drive program, “Hammer and Nigel,” hosted by Jason Hammer and Nigel Laskowski revealing the Emmis Communications news/talk station is adding the 3:00 pm hour to the show’s current 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm air time. The reason for adding the hour is the show’s outstanding success has created such a demand for local advertising that the station wants more inventory. Quoted in the piece is Kristine Warski, a media director for the local ad agency MKR, who says, “‘The Hammer and Nigel Show’ is a bit different from your traditional news/talk show. They’ve fused news and entertainment and, by doing so, are attracting a younger audience than news-talk has traditionally.” See the IBJ piece here.

The New Yorker Piece Looks at Allegations by KABC’s Leeann Tweeden The Brought Down Al Franken. A lengthy story by Jane Mayer in The New Yorker takes an in-depth look at the case of former U.S. Senator — and one-time Air America talk radio host — Al Franken, who resigned his senate seat after a photo showing him pretending to grab the breasts of KABC-AM, Los Angeles talk host Leeann Tweeden appeared in the media. Now, more than 18 months after Franken left the senate, he’s interviewed for the story that addresses due process, the #MeToo movement, and whether Franken should have resigned at all. (Spoiler alert: Franken regrets resigning his position.) See the story here.

Is Talk Radio Responsible for the Tone of Today’s National Conversation? Former longtime talk radio host Tom Becka (KMBZ and KCMO, Kansas City; KFAB and KOIL, Omaha) expresses his feelings about his responsibility as part of the talk radio industry for the polarized state of public discourse in America. Becka, in an op-ed on KPTM-TV, Omaha “FOX 42,” says, “ I don’t think I personally contributed to what is going on, but I worked for stations with syndicated shows that did – shows that stoked fears about Muslims, stoked fears about minorities, shows that stoked fears about liberals and others that were different than them.” See his entire commentary here.

Siegel: Talk Radio Can Impact Regime Change in Iran. Nationally syndicated talk radio host Mike Siegel writes in a piece today about the efforts to foment regime change in Iran and what role talk radio hosts in America can play in helping achieve that goal. Siegel says, “Now there is a real and tangible option being offered as a new government in Iran by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). Led by Madame Maryam Rajavi, this organization has grown in stature and respect over the years and has offered an option of peaceful government living as a civilized neighbor to other countries in the Middle East.” Read Siegel’s piece here.

WABC’s John Batchelor Broadcasts from Tokyo This Week. WABC, New York’s late-night John Batchelor show is broadcasting live from the center of Tokyo all this week (7/22-26). The broadcast is being sponsored by global digital technology company Scala Inc. in conjunction with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. All week long, Batchelor will travel widely to meet with and interview leaders from across Japanese culture, including: the Nippon Professional Baseball Association; the Japanese Space Agency’s Hayabusa2 asteroid probe program; the celebrated Cherry Association maintaining the pantheon of Japanese cherry trees; Toyota’s Autonomous Vehicle development; and the Central Japan Railway’s MAGLEV project. Also scheduled to appear on the show is Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kano.

TALKERS News Notes. The Daily Hampshire GazettereportsSaga Communications’ news/talk WHMP, Northampton, Massachusetts has named its studio the Barbara J. Kuschka WHMP studio in honor of station traffic manager Barbara Kuschka, who recently celebrated 50 years of service to the radio station. The article says, “Since she began work in 1969, Kuschka has been a behind-the-scenes figure, who one person described as the glue that holds the station together in her work as traffic manager.”…..Entercom Pittsburgh and the University of Pittsburgh Athletics announce they’ve signed a new, multi-year extension of their broadcasting partnership. As part of the deal, sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” will serve as flagship station for Panthers football and men’s basketball. Sister stations news/talk KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020,” hot AC WBZZ “100.7 Star,” and country WDSY “Y108” will provide coverage and promotional support.

Mueller Testimony, New Trump Impeachment Talk, 2020 Presidential Race, Iran Alleges CIA Arrests, Immigration Reform/Border Wall, and Summer Heatwave Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. This week’s testimony from special counsel Robert Mueller; House Judiciary chairman Jerrold Nadler’s “high crimes and misdemeanors” charge against Trump; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; Iran’s claims it has arrested 17 CIA spies; the Trump Administration’s immigration reform efforts and the border wall status; and the weekend’s hot weather in much of the country were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Josh Wolff is named program director for iHeartMedia’s CHR WAEB “B104” and rock WZZO in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This is an internal move for Wolff, who was most recently marketing director and APD at the company’s Phoenix station group for adult contemporary KKEZ and adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain.” Wolff takes over for Derrick Cole, who accepted a role with the company’s National Programming Group as contemporary hit radio program director…..At non-commercial triple A WYMS, Milwaukee “88Nine Radio Milwaukee,” morning personality Dori Zori is named assistant program director. WYMS PD Jordan Lee comments, “Dori’s 20-plus years in non-commercial radio make her the perfect fit for the role. Dori will also lead some new and exciting programming plans that are in the works at ‘Radio Milwaukee.’”

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Observant TALKERS readers: Thanks for noticing my absence here last week when, like many Americans, I took some V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N time. Note: Two 1962 song references in two sentences. THIS time of year is THAT timeless.

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Emmis and Standard General Form New Company to Buy New York’s WBLS-FM and WQHT-FM. This new company will be called Mediaco Holding and it will buy urban radio stations WBLS-FM and WQHT-FM “Hot 97” for $91.5 million in cash, a $5 million note receivable, and 23.72% of the common equity of Mediaco. Emmis will distribute this common equity of Mediaco pro rata to its shareholders in a taxable dividend. Mediaco will be a public company expected to be listed on NASDAQ, and Emmis will remain a separate public company, as well. Emmis chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan will serve as CEO of Mediaco and Emmis will remain active in the management of WBLS and WQHT and provide certain corporate services to Mediaco pursuant to a management agreement between the parties. Investment firm Standard General will appoint a majority of the board of directors of Mediaco and Soohyung Kim, CEO, managing partner and chief investment officer of Standard General L.P., will be chairman of Mediaco. After this deal gets regulatory approval, Emmis Communications will still operate New York’s WLIB and WEPN (through an LMA with ESPN Radio), four radio stations in Indianapolis, Indianapolis Monthly, and Digonex, a dynamic pricing company. Emmis recently announced it is selling its 50.1% ownership stake in eight Austin, Texas stations to Sinclair Telecable for $39.3 million. Smulyan says of this latest deal, “This is a landmark day in the 40-year history of Emmis. We look forward to continuing to manage two of the world’s most iconic radio brands in ‘HOT 97’ and WBLS and employ our award-winning New York team as we partner with Soo Kim and Standard General to form a new public company to invest in media opportunities. The transaction provides Emmis significant capital to aggressively pursue new business opportunities that align with our entrepreneurial spirit and management skills. We are also excited to work with Soo and Standard General to grow Mediaco Holding. We have already been evaluating great investment opportunities and I’m incredibly excited about the future. Today is a great day for the future of Emmis.” Emmis says that no personnel changes are planned, and all New York employees will continue to be Emmis employees with Emmis benefits as part of an Employee Leasing Agreement with Mediaco.

Kietzman Exits WHB-AM, Kansas City in Aftermath of Andy Reid Comments. Kansas City sports talk personality Kevin Kietzman has exited Union Broadcasting’s sports talk WHB-AM “Sports Radio 810” where he’s been hosting “Between the Lines” for the past 22 years. Last week, Kietzman was suspended from the station after he referenced Chiefs coach Andy Reid’s two sons Britt and Garrett – both of whom battled drug issues and Garrett died of an overdose in 2012 – during a monologue about Reid’s ability to fix players with personal problems. In an apology issued last week, Kietzman said his intent was not to blame Andy Reid for Garrett’s death, but he understood how his comments could have been interpreted as such. Union Broadcasting president Chad Boeger issued a statement saying Kietzman’s departure was mutual, but it’s likely Kietzman would have preferred to return to his job. Kietzman was allowed to issue a final statement: “It’s been my honor and privilege to host ‘Between the Lines’ for the past 22 years and I’m proud of being a founding partner of this great local company that is so committed to our community.”

Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Videos Begin Posting Today with Erica Farber and Cousin Brucie Receiving Awards. TALKERS has begun posting key speeches, presentations and sessions from the recent 22nd annual edition of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most-important national convention today (7/1). The first two videos being posted today are RAB president/CEO Erica Farber receiving the Woman of the Year award and SiriusXM Satellite Radio star “Cousin” Bruce Morrow receiving the Lifetime Achievement award. The convention – Talkers 2019: Telling the Story – took place in New York City on Friday, June 7 and was one of the most positively received in the event’s colorful history. TALKERS plans to add one or two videos per day to those posted until all the major events of the conference are posted here at Talkers.com. To see the videos and convention video page, please click here.

Nielsen Releases Total Audience Report for Q1 2019. The latest Total Audience Report from Nielsen has been published and although the time spent with radio relative to other media options shrank from Q1 2018 to Q1 2019, in the audio universe it is still the most popular platform with 92% of the 18+ U.S. population. Looking at the daily hours and minutes spent with each platform, among adults 35-49 radio listening dipped from 1:50 minutes per day to 1:45 minutes. In the Millennial group – adults 18-39 – listening time went from 1:25 in Q1 of 2018 to 1:20 in Q1 of 2019. Which platform is seeing the largest growth? It’s the use of an app or the web on a smart phone. That category is up across the board, even with upper demos. In the adults 50-64 demographic, for example, use of an app or the web on a smartphone rose from 2:24 minutes per day to 2:47 minutes from Q1 of 2018 to Q1 of 2019. See more about the report here.

Chris Williams Signs Four-Year Extension to Remain with iHeartRadio. Digital executive Chris Williams will continue as chief product officer foriHeartRadio as he signs a four-year contract extension. In this role he oversees digital programming initiatives, product marketing, UXD, and product strategies. He joined the company in 2013 and rose to his current post in 2014. The company says that during his tenure as CPO, he has “expanded the iHeartRadio footprint to over 280 platforms and 2,000 devices and more than tripled its audience to where it currently stands with a registered user base of 130MM. He also led the product initiative to launch two on-demand services, iHeartRadio Plus and iHeartRadio All Access.”

TALKERS News Notes. Newsday’s Neil Best writes that Entercom New York regional president Susan Larkin “would love” for WFAN afternoon drive personality Mike Francesa to continue hosting his radio show “forever.” Best’s column speculates about Francesa’s future with the station, addressing both Francesa’s own musings about the challenges of hosting his radio show and doing his digital content for his app as well as the fact that the company is paying eight personalities to host four shows. Larkin tells Best the company is pleased with the ratings and revenue from Francesa’s show. Read it here…..WREX-TV, Rockford, Illinois reports that Midwest Family Broadcasting’s sports talk WNTA-AM is canceling its live and local sports talk shows and replacing them with syndicated fare. Gone from the station are “Randy & Co.,” a two-hour morning show hosted by Randy Ruef and featuring a rotating cast of co-hosts as well as producer Jordan Goethe, and “Full Court Press,” the 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm show co-hosted by Jake Logli and Jackson Schwartz…..Pictured at left is Westwood One talk host Jim Bohannon as Santa Claus bringing Christmas in June to kids at the Collins Children’s Home of Seneca, South Carolina.

G20 Summit/Trump Meets with Kim Jon Un and Xi Jinping, Hong Kong-China Tensions, Immigration Reform, 2020 Presidential Race, Iran Nuclear Ambitions, and Stonewall Anniversary Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan and President Trump’s meetings with China’s Xi Jinping and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the protests in Hong Kong against Chinese rule; the Trump Administration’s immigration reform policies; the Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020; Iran’s production of weapons grade uranium; and the anniversary of New York’s Stonewall Riots were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Hartford hot AC WTIC-FM names Ryan “Salt” MacMillan the new morning drive host, taking over for Gary Craig, who recently announced his retirement. Salt began hosting the Entercom station’s morning program with incumbent morning personality Christine Lee today (7/1). Salt comes to Hartford from the company’s Boston hot AC WWBX-FM “Mix 104.1” where he was part of the “Karson & Kennedy” morning program. He says, “Boston has given me so much over the past seven years both on and off the air and I will forever be thankful, but it’s time for a new adventure in Hartford. Gary Craig is a Hartford radio legend and with his long-time partner, Christine Lee, I am honored to try and continue his legacy.”…..Award-winning CMT host and radio personality Cody Alan just celebrated his 2,000th episode as host of “CMT After MidNite.” Alan was surprised with in-studio appearances by Garth Brooks and Keith Urban, as well as a phone call from Thomas Rhett. In addition to this major milestone for “CMT After MidNite,” Alan is also celebrating the 100th episode of his “Cody Cast” podcast and the 10th anniversary of the Premiere Networks-syndicated program “CMT Radio Live with Cody Alan.”…..Programmer Kat San Andres adds music director duties for Local Media San Diego’s rhythmic AC XHRM “Magic 92.5” to her responsibilities that also include serving as music director and APD for sister CHR XHTZ “Z90.” She joined “Z90” in 2004 as a morning program intern and has worked her way up through the programming department…..Sheridan Broadcasting Corporation announces its new venture in which Radio Disney has agreed to license Radio Disney video content to SBC. SBC will “telestream” the Radio Disney video content: the audio will be broadcast on SBC’s radio station WIGO-AM, Atlanta and simultaneously the video will be streamed at wigoam.com. Sheridan has a patent which covers telestreaming. SBC says it will launch a one-hour daily program featuring Radio Disney video content in the near future that will tentatively be called “The Radio Disney Hour.” SBC COO Ron Davenport, Jr. says, “We are honored and extremely flattered to be the first radio broadcaster licensed by Disney to use Radio Disney video content. The Radio Disney team has been incredible to work with, and we are very excited about the possibilities going forward.”…..Sun Broadcast Group and “The Michael Baisden Show” announce a renewal of the show’s distribution deal through December 31, 2020. Baisden says, “Now that the show is hitting on all cylinders it’s time to do what I do best…engage with people. I began my career hosting relationship seminars and producing upscale events, it’s time to get back out there and connect with my listeners face-to-face and have some fun!”…..SiriusXM is launching a limited-run music channel called “Madonna’s Madame X Radio” that will be available during the month of July.

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Big Changes at KNBR, San Francisco as Gary Radnich and Bob Fitzgerald Exit. Sports talk fans in the Bay Area are shocked by the unexpected tweet from KNBR, San Francisco personality Gary Radnich in which the 27-year station host announced he’s retiring immediately. He wrote, “Plan was to retire at the end of the year but with my 70th birthday ahead it makes sense now. Thank you audience for 36 years of TV-Radio!” Radnich has been partnered with Larry Krueger in middays. There’s considerable scuttlebutt in the Bay Area as to whether the sudden retirement was really Radnich being forced out by station owner Cumulus Media. The announcement comes on the heels of a report in The Athletic that Bay Area sports personality Greg Papa is exiting Entercom’s crosstown KGMZ-FM “95.7 The Game” for an on-air position with KNBR (he’d also handle radio play-by-play for 49ers games). For what it’s worth, The Athletic writes that Radnich was “let go.” Shortly after the Radnich news hit, we learned that KNBR also is parting ways with Bob Fitzgerald, who co-hosted the “Fitz and Brooks” show with Rod Brooks. It appears Brooks will continue hosting the show solo.

Drew Horowitz to Retire from Hubbard Radio. At the end of 2019, radio executive Drew Horowitz will retire from his president and COO position with Hubbard Radio. Horowitz has been with the company since it acquired Chicago stations (and clusters in three other markets) from Bonneville in 2011. Chicago media maven Robert Feder broke the news today. Horowitz says he’ll take some time off after December “and explore other opportunities, including serving on corporate boards, teaching, and taking classes.” Horowitz began his sales career with WFYR-FM, Chicago in 1976. During his career he served as chief of Lakeshore Communications, GSM at WCLR (now WTMX) including 19 years with Bonneville. In a memo to Hubbard staffers, chair and CEO Ginny Morris says, “Drew came to Hubbard Radio as a part of our transformational acquisition of four Bonneville markets in 2011. Since that time, Drew has been instrumental in helping us further grow the company as we added clusters in Phoenix and Seattle, bolstered our cluster in St. Louis and most recently, acquired our operations in West Palm Beach.”

Monday Memo: Retire ‘Trivia.’ In this week’s edition of the Monday Memo, consultant Holland Cooke recommends that you DO call-in questions that ask listeners to think, but that you DON’T call it “Trivia,” for four reasons. See what those reasons are here.

TALKERS News Notes. Veteran Philadelphia and New Jersey broadcaster Gary R’nel, guest-hosted last night (6/23) for Walter M. Sterling on the Westwood One syndicated “Sterling on Sunday” show…..Also from Philadelphia, several reports out of that city indicate that the KYW-AM air staff represented by SAG-AFTRA and Entercom have agreed to terms on a new contract for the on-air employees at the all-news station. The KYW staffers had been working without a contract for the past eight months…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reminds us that Windy City radio legend Garry Meier, who is currently producing his own podcast, is sitting in on Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM all this week for morning drive personality Mancow Muller…..The most recent episode of the “Opie Radio” podcast from Gregg “Opie” Hughes is titled “R.I.P” in which Hughes says his deal with Westwood One for the podcast is ending. He says he intends to keep producing the podcast…..Westwood One News manager John Stolnis is pictured at right accepting the Society of Professional Journalists’ Sigma Delta Chi Award won by the news staff for breaking news coverage of last year’s Parkland Florida School shooting. The awards dinner was held Friday night at the National Press Club in Washington, DC…..Entercom’s WSCR, Chicago “The Score” announces the inaugural “McNeil and Parkins Charity Golf Outing” (named for afternoon drive duo Dan McNeil and Danny Parkins) taking place on August 5 at Seven Bridges Golf Club in Woodridge, Illinois to benefit Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. Entercom Chicago SVP and market manager Jimmy de Castro says, “We’re very excited to launch the inaugural ‘McNeil and Parkins Charity Golf Outing’ and to raise money for a fantastic organization like Turning Pointe. It should be a great day of golfing with ‘The Score’ talent and local sports celebrities.”…..Podcast producer Cadence13 launches the new program “Hacks on Tap,” a weekly podcast hosted by longtime campaign strategists and friends David Axelrod, chief strategist for Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns, and Mike Murphy, a veteran political consultant for Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign and many others. The two take listeners behind the scenes of top-level American politics and campaigns, offering their insider perspectives and analyses on the state of American politics in the lead up to the 2020 presidential election.

PPM Analysis: Public News/Talk Radio. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on public radio news/talk. Big gainers from April to May are KNPR, Las Vegas (+1.2); KXJZ, Sacramento; KCUR, Kansas City; and WPLN, Nashville – all up 1.0 share. Both KNPR and KCUR realized big year-over-year weekly 6+ AQH share increased with KNPR rising 3.8 shares and KCUR going up 2.2 shares. Just three public radio news/talk stations ranked #1 in their markets in May: KUOW, Seattle; KPBS, San Diego; and KCFR, Denver. See the whole report here.

The Harry Hurley Charity Juggernaut Keeps Rolling. WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley’s “Hurley in the Morning” 12th Annual Charity Golf Open held this past Friday (6/21) at the Harbor Pines Golf Club wasa huge success. The event, in conjunction with Hurley’s 11th Annual Charity Dinner at Resorts Casino Hotel (with Fox News personality Todd Starnes) held earlier this year, has raised a record $100,000 thus far in 2019 and has surpassed $900,000 over the past 12 years. Hurley, a former TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” recipient recently named the New Jersey Broadcasters Association “Broadcaster of the Year” for 2019, distributes the funds raised by his charity to worthy causes throughout New Jersey, the Northeast and across the nation.

Partying with Howie Carr. The two photos here are from the annual Summer Kick-off Party for affiliates, sponsors and industry friends of “The Howie Carr Show.” Howie and Kathy Carr held their annual get-together at their Boston-area home this past Friday evening (6/21). Above are Howie Carr (left) and TALKERS founder Michael Harrison (right). Below are (from l-r): Yappy Days author, Bernadette Duncan; “Howie Carr Show” producer and on-air personality Grace Curley; and WBSM, New Bedford, morning host Phil Paleologos.

Steve Austin’s New Podcast Tops 1 Million Downloads. Returning from a six-month hiatus, Steve Austin’s latest podcast episode on PodcastOne gets more than 1 million downloads. PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, “Since January, we’ve been running Steve’s classic podcasts from the last five years. There is no substitute for original content from the ‘global icon and national treasure,’ Steve Austin. He hits the ground running and is reaching his biggest audience ever. Welcome home, Steve.”

Three Named to Broadcasters Foundation of America Board of Directors. The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces it has elected John David, senior advisor to the National Association of Broadcasters; Jinny Laderer, co-founder and CEO of vCreative; and Deborah Roberts, award-winning ABC News correspondent for “20/20,” “Nightline,” “Good Morning America,” and “ABC World News Tonight with David Muir,” to its board of directors. BFoA chairman Dan Mason says, “John, Jinny, and Deborah are industry leaders who have exemplified the Foundation’s philosophy of ‘giving back’ through their tireless efforts to advance broadcasting and to support our charitable mission of helping colleagues in need. It is with great pleasure that I welcome these highly respected professionals to our board of directors.”

Trump Calls Off Iran Strike, 2020 Presidential Race/Dem Primary Debates, Mayor Pete Town Hall, Immigration Policy/Deportation Ramp-Up, and Boris Johnson PM Bid Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The downing of a U.S. Air Force drone by Iran and President Trump’s calling off a retaliatory strike; the 2020 presidential race and this week’s TV debates between 20 of the Democratic candidates; presidential candidate and South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg faces angry constituents over the police killing of a black man; the Trump Administration’s illegal immigration policy and the delay of a deportation program; and the call for British prime minister candidate Boris Johnson to explain a domestic incident in which police were called to his home were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. New York City hot AC WKTU has a new program director as Chris Conley – who also programs sister adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 LITE FM” – assumes the responsibilities. Conley is also brand manager for AC for iHeartMedia…..In Los Angeles, Taxi License Corporation names Jamillah Muhammad operations manager for urban contemporary KJLH-FM. She was most recently vice president for the marketing and management firm The Lewis-Kortez Group. She says, “I am extremely excited to join the KJLH family as the new operations manager. With my passion for radio, serving the community, and improving brands, I know we can lead this heritage station to success.”…..On-air pro Carmine Gialanella moves up from his evening show shift at iHeartMedia’s CHR WLDI, West Palm Beach “WiLD 95.5” to afternoon drive. Market SVP of programming Rad Messick says, “Carmine’s the ultimate team player for ‘WiLD 95.5.’ His enthusiasm and commitment is second to none. It’s a thrill to reward his performance with this well-deserved new afternoon opportunity.”…..Albany Broadcasting names Jeff Weber market manager for its six music-formatted stations in the Albany market. Weber joins the company from Charleston, South Carolina where he was general sales manager for a two-FM combo. Company COO Steve Borneman says, “Jeff has tremendous experience in radio and he has a local connection to Albany which makes him the perfect choice. We’re thrilled to have him…..Cumulus Media is spending $250,000 in technology to boost the signal strength of Worcester market hot AC WXLO-FM (licensed to Fitchburg, Massachusetts) to reach into the adjacent Boston market. Cumulus says, “Thanks to MaxxCasting, WXLO has the ability to bring its programming to as many as one million more listeners in the Boston area.” Cumulus RVP Bob Goodell adds, “We’re excited that the 450,000-plus listeners who tune into ‘104.5 XLO’ on a weekly basis, many of whom commute in and out of the City of Boston, will now be able to hear the radio station on their entire commute. MaxxCasting has also given us the opportunity to reach new listeners who live in the greater Boston area, giving us the opportunity to expand our footprint.”

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — I’m NOT saying don’t do call-in contests that ask listeners to think. Do that! Even folks who don’t call-in will be talking-back to the radio. And with ratings being a memory test, anything that makes people more-active listeners will help.

What I’m saying is don’t call your call-in contest “trivia,” for four reasons:

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Monday Memo: Your Email ‘Envelope.’ Consultant Holland Cooke wraps up his three-part series of tips from digital professionals with technique critical to hosts’ engagement with listener tribes (and sales reps’ approach to prospects). “Few opportunities to engage are more powerful than the ongoing conversation you have with listeners. It’s a relationship that Pandora can’t emulate. Smart syndicated hosts exploit email well, and if you’re local you can be even more relatable.” Read more here.

Jarecki to Host Evening Show at ‘Sportsradio 610’ Houston. Sports talk host Matthew Jarecki comes to Entercom’s Houston sports talker KILT-AM “SportsRadio 610” from Flagstaff, Arizona where he’s been serving as a sideline reporter for KAFF-FM and Northern Arizona University’s NAU-TV and as morning drive host on the school’s KLJX-LP radio outlet. His new show on KILT will air from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Matt’s a natural when it comes to sports radio. He has an innate ability to create unique and passionate opinions around Houston sports. His relentless work ethic will shine through and has helped him earn this opportunity.”

iHeartMedia Unveils Project Listen at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. American audio company iHeartMedia announces a partnership with London-based creative conglomerate WPP as they launch Project Listen “to develop next-generation insights, planning and creative capabilities in audio.” A press release states that “the two companies will help brands better engage with consumers and win across all audio platforms: broadcast radio, digital streaming, podcasts, smart speakers and live events.” It goes on to say, “The study shows consumers say they are listening to audio content for an average of 17 hours a week, with millennials and younger generations listening the most. This ramp up in listening is the direct result of the rapid growth of digital streaming, podcasts, smart speakers, and airpods, on top of the massive and consistent scale of broadcast radio.” The three-pronged partnership is composed of: 1) Creative Audio Studio – Audio will be pushed higher on the agendas of creatives and media strategists with the launch of a new studio at GroupM’s headquarters at 3 World Trade Center in New York. Clients and creatives from across WPP will experiment with modern audio marketing programs, working with creative producers in a series of pilots; 2) Empowering Planning – iHeartMedia’s Smart Audio Insights and audience tools will be integrated with GroupM’s proprietary data and insights tools to uncover new insights and support novel measurement approaches, all of which will be shared in quarterly intelligence reports for clients and the market. A new audio certification program for planners at GroupM’s agencies will roll out later in 2019; and 3) Raising Audio IQ – A new Project Listen monthly podcast is launching in Cannes with plans for 18 episodes through 2020. Lessons from the client pilots and research will be shared to help inspire more advertisers to embrace audio’s new capabilities. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “Project Listen is about tapping into the scale of audio and moving from the traditionally transactional radio business to the future of audio advertising where insights and ideas lead the way to growth for brands. Simply put, audio is the biggest greenfield for growth in media today, and we could not be more excited to partner with the talented teams across WPP to develop the tools and skillsets needed to unlock that growth.”

The Weiss Agency and John Wiley & Sons Partner on ‘For Dummies: The Podcast.’ A partnership between The Weiss Agency’s newly established podcast division, TWA Podcast Studio, and publishing firm John Wiley & Sons is producing a new podcast series titled, “For Dummies: The Podcast,” hosted by NBC daytime star Eric Martsolf. Capitalizing on the more than 250 million books in print in the “For Dummies” series, each weekly episode of the podcast adaptation will be a distillation of one of the “For Dummies” titles presented in a highly- entertaining and informative format. Eric Weiss says, “Dummies is an iconic media brand that has successfully educated readers around the globe for over three decades. I am thrilled to partner with Wiley to produce an informative and entertaining podcast that will allow us to share this gold mine of instructional information with listeners around the world.” “For Dummies: The Podcast” debuts today (6/17) on all major podcast platforms.

Nielsen Audio Releases Audio Today Report. The June 2019 Audio Today report from Nielsen Audio is released and contains data and insights “regarding listening trends, in all its various forms – including podcasting and smart speakers.” Nielsen says AM/FM radio reaches 272 million Americans each week (92% of adults 18+), “more than any other platform.” The study concludes that “radio is in high demand and has a diverse listenership when considering how many people tune in across age, gender, and ethnicity. Not surprisingly, adults 18-49 are the demographic that tunes in the most. The monthly reach for these listeners is 132.4 million (98% of the population), and country is the format they prefer most. Adults 25-54 are the second most reached demographic for radio, with 123.6 million (99%) of the population listening each month.” The study breaks out listening by demographics and, as you can see in the graphic here, news/talk is the preferred format among Men 25-54, but note that this is combined commercial news/talk and public radio news/talk. Nielsen does look at commercial news/talk separately and reports that among Adults 25-54, commercial news/talk is the 8th most-listened-to format, garnering a 4.9 share (country is tops with a 13.1 share). See more here.

TAB Radio Institute at the University of Tennessee Opens Today. Last week, TALKERS tipped readers that the Beasley Radio Talent Institute is beginning today at Emerson College in Boston. It so happens that today is also the opening of the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Radio Institute at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Over the course of the next 10 days, students will learn from more than three dozen broadcasters teaching in their areas of expertise. TAB president Whit Adamson says, “The student preparation and focus for the Radio Talent Institute is like nothing else we could get involved with. This course gets them ready for graduation and the next step in their careers, which is a valuable asset to any station. They are exposed to all facets of a station and will be capable of sitting down at any broadcast radio or television facility and be prepared to add something.” Twenty-two students were accepted into the institute from eight universities, including: University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee State, Austin Peay State University, Tennessee Tech, Georgia State University, Jackson State Community College, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and Dalton State College in Georgia.

Begnaud to Anchor ‘Reporter’s Notebook’ for CBS News Radio. Four-year CBS News Radio Network journalist David Begnaud is named anchor of the daily CBS News Radio and CBS Audio feature “Reporter’s Notebook.” Begnaud was recently named lead national correspondent for the network’s “CBS THIS MORNING” program. Each edition of “Reporter’s Notebook” will give listeners insight and context to the day’s biggest news stories. Begnaud’s reports will be broadcast at 4:25 pm ET Monday through Friday. CBS News Radio vice president and general manager Craig Swagler says, “David represents true compassion in his storytelling that affects our listeners. Our affiliates can depend on David to bring the best original reporting to their audiences with ‘Reporter’s Notebook.’” Begnaud’s coverage of Hurricane Maria earned him the prestigious George Polk Award for public service in 2018. He also received the RTDNA’s First Amendment Leadership Award for his significant contribution to the protection of the First Amendment and freedom of the press.

Lieberman to Head Up Sales at WTEM, Washington. Sales pro Stephen Lieberman is appointed general sales manager of Radio One’s sports talk WTEM, Washington “The Team 980,” effective July 8. He was most recently general sales manager for NBC Sports Washington. Prior to that Lieberman was the local sales manager at ESPN O&O WMVP-AM, Chicago “ESPN Radio 1000.” Lieberman says, “I’m truly excited to return to the place where I started my sports radio career. I’m humbled to have an opportunity to build on the great work that my colleagues have devoted to ‘The Team 980,’ and I’m looking forward to collaborating with this talented group to strengthen our ties to the community while building deeper partnerships in the marketplace.”

2020 Presidential Race/Poll Numbers, Impeachment Talk, Kellyanne Conway Hatch Act Allegations, Iran Suspected of Tanker Attacks, South American Blackout, and Hong Kong Protests Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and the leaked poll numbers that indicate Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders lead Trump in several states; the Democrats’ talk of beginning impeachment proceedings against the president; the U.S. Office of Special Counsel’s report that White House aide Kellyanne Conway violated the Hatch Act numerous times; the U.S. accuses Iran of torpedoing oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman; the blackouts affecting millions in Argentina and Uruguay; and the Hong Kong protests over the Chinese extradition policy were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Los Angeles, Nick Cannon is joining Meruelo Media’s hip hop KPWR “Power 106” as the station’s new morning drive personality. Meruelo Media president and COO Otto Padron says, “Nick is the quintessential entertainer and content creator who will take our media game to the next level. His tremendous success across television, film, and music is testimony of his unique talent, work ethic, and impeccable reputation. Nick is the absolute right talent to start our mornings on ‘Power 106’ – this is an incredible match and we’re fortunate to have him in our family.”…..Beasley Media Group rebrands KOAS-FM, Las Vegas “Jammin’ 105.7” and officially kicked off the newly tweaked format by playing “Smile” by Li’l Duval & Snoop Dogg. With the change, the Premiere Networks-syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show takes over the AM daypart. Zenja Dunn remains in middays while Paco Lopez joins the afternoon drive show and Connie Breeze hosts evenings…..Hubbard Radio announces that programming pro and country radio specialist Bruce Logan will take the helm as operations manager and brand/content director of country WIRK-FM, West Palm Beach and sister adult contemporary WEAT “Sunny 107.9.” Logan was most recently the VP of programming for Entercom’s Houston market and program director for country KILT-FM and adult hits KKHH-FM.

Round Four of Takeaways from May PPM Survey. May 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 survey period covered April 25 – May 22. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM markets below.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – It was announced last week that Emmis is selling its 50.1% controlling interest in six Austin stations to Bob and David Sinclair-led Sinclair Telecable for $39.3 million. Included in the deal are news/talk KLBJ-AM; classic rock KLBJ-FM; adult hits KBPA-FM; adult contemporary KGSR-FM; alternative KROX-FM; regional Mexican KLZT-FM; and music brands “Austin City Limits Radio” and “Latino 102.7.” The Austin cluster will be rebranded as Waterloo Media. Until the sale is finalized, we will include any mention of these stations in “Takeaways” columns as “Emmis-owned.”

On the heels of April’s gigantic -2.0 (9.5 – 7.5, 6+), KUT surrenders another one-tenth to 7.4, its lowest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 7.1, but the University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk facility continues in the runner-up slot. KUT’s previous shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); and +.7 (March).

Austin Music Formats – In three straight decreases, iHeartMedia country KVET-FM erodes by -1.3 (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.9, 6+), but “98.1 The Austin Texas Original” rallies with a +.9 to 5.8 (6+) and jumps from eighth to fourth. The just-concluded negative streak directly followed its January +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+). It is tied at #4 with co-owned/similarly-formatted KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country,” which is +1.5 in three straight upticks (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, fifth to fourth, 6+). April’s +1.2 halted its November 2018 through March 2019 alternating up/down pattern (5.4 – 5.6 – 3.7 – 4.9 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+). Particularly noteworthy in that stretch, KASE plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and was -.6 in February. Locked on 2.0 (6+) in March and April, Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” adds one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) and continues at #16. A January drop of one-tenth interrupted three straight increases that nearly doubled (+1.1) KOKE-FM’s 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+). Within 5.2 – 5.8 range (6+) the fourth straight time including May’s increase of one-half share (5.2 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.8, 6+), Entercom hot AC KAMX “Mix 94.7” progresses from seventh to fourth. This is its best 6+-showing in nearly one year (5.8 as well in June 2018). Despite dropping one-half share (8.7 – 8.2, 6+), Emmis adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” repeats at #1. Prior to April 2019, the last time “Bob” occupied the top spot was December 2018 when KBPA scored an 8.3 (6+). In back-to-back (April and May) reports, regional Mexican sibling KLZT “107.1 La Z” spirals by eight-tenths (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1, 6+), drifting from fourth to eighth. “La Z” was +1.2 in March and, prior to April, last reached the six-share level in October 2016 (6.1). Off one-half share (1.9 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom urban contemporary KKMJ-HD3 slips from #18 to #20. In early-March, Emmis flipped KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” to adult contemporary “Star 93.3.” While off nine-tenths in its first sweep in the new format, “Star” erased that deficit completely with a magnitude-matching April increase (1.1 – 2.0, +.9, 6+) but forfeits one-tenth in May (1.9, #16 to #17, 6+). The station it is chasing – Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday” – falters by three-tenths to 6.2 (6+) and carries on in third-place. In advance of May’s -.3, “Majic” was -1.2 (September 2018); +1.2 (October); -.5 (November); +1.2 (December); +2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); -4.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.5 (March); and +1.5 (April). Having posted a 1.0 in March (#21, 6+), Principle Broadcasting Foundation triple A KDRP-LP “Sun Radio – The Best Music Under The Sun” is unlisted in April and May.

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK was an overall +1.9 (4.6 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+), but “106.1 Stay Connected” is now a combined -.7 in April/May (6.5 – 6.1 – 5.8, flat at #7, 6+). Even though it returns the one-tenth it gained in April (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” advances from #17 to #16.

While off four-tenths (7.4 – 7.0, 6+), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” continues in third-place. WUNC followed January’s +1.0 with a -.6 in February.

Indianapolis Music Formats – It had been well over seven years ago since Sarkes Tarzian triple A WTTS last appeared in print (February 2012, 2.8, #16) but it resurfaced as a Nielsen Audio subscriber in April 2019 with a 3.1 (6+) and ranked #14. “World Class Rock 92.3 – Experience The Music” hauls out a May +1.0 to 4.1 (6+) and progresses to #12. A cumulative -1.5 in four successive negative moves (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR WHHH “Hot 96.3” ends the slide with a +.8 to 5.4 (ninth to eighth, 6+). CHR cluster-mate WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” adds one-half share (2.6 – 3.1, 6+) and moves from #15 to #14. April 2019 was a benchmark ratings period for Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK. “Classic Hits 104.5” recorded a massive +1.7 to 10.2, the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing October 2018’s 10.0. While a modest May dip of three-tenths sends WJJK back under a ten-share (9.9, 6+), “Classic Hits 104.5” sets the pace for the fifth consecutive time. This calendar year, WJJK has been +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); and -.3 (May). After spending six straight sweeps on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January 2019. As a result of four consecutive decreases, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” has lost roughly 37% (-1.5) of its 6+-stat (4.1- 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, #12 to #15). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WQRA Air 1 – Worship Now” is without an increase for the seventh time in a row for a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .5 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .2 – .2, #22 to #23, 6+). After being off six-tenths in four consecutive down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.2, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR WYRG “Energy 93.9” is up one-tenth to 1.3 (#19 to #18, 6+). This time last month, WYXB “B-105.7” logged a +1.9 to 8.8 (6+). Now, the Emmis adult contemporary outlet relinquishes roughly 31% of that bounty to 8.2 (-.6, 6+) but remains in second-place. April’s +1.9 suspended three negative moves in succession that accounted for a -9.5 (16.4 – 7.6 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+). Faltering four-tenths to 5.0 (seventh to ninth, 6+), Radio One urban AC WTLC-FM “106.7 Indy’s R&B Leader” has its successive string of up or flat trends that yielded eight-tenths end at four (4.6 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). As Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” sputters by six-tenths (8.0 – 7.4, 6+), Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” drops four-tenths (6.5 – 6.1, 6+); the country rivals continue at #3 and #5, respectively. WFMS followed March’s +1.1 with an April gain of seven-tenths. WFMS was +.9 (October 2018); -1.8 (December); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); +1.1 (March); and +.7 (April). Three successive bumps by WLHK netted a +2.2 (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.9 – 6.6, 6+), but “Hank” returned one-tenth in April. Prior to adding eight-tenths in January, WLHK was an overall -1.3 in three straight decreases (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+).

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – It is exceptionally rare to see a station make a mega-move (+1.5 or more) one month and then actually “add-on” the next sweep. That is exactly what happens in Milwaukee though where Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” made one of the largest-ever (non-Christmas music period) month-to-month gains (5.9 – 8.8, +2.9) and manages to follow with an additional six-tenths to 9.4 (6+). The whopping April/May +3.5 propels the Brewers flagship from second to first. Recent WTMJ shifts include +1.9 (April 2018); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); -2.6 (December); and +2.9 (April 2019). Remaining at #6, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130,” which as +2.2 in January, is up a combined six-tenths in April/May (5.1 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+).

Three straight reports without a loss by WUWM led to a +1.2 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), but the University of Wisconsin news/talk outlet is a combined -.9 in April/May and exits the top ten (4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9, #10 to #13, 6+). Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD is off three-tenths via three straight down or flat moves (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+) yet proceeds from #17 to #16.

Milwaukee Music Formats – Owing to four negative or flat reports in succession, Entercom hot AC WMYX forfeited an overall seven-tenths (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.4, 6+); however, “99.1 The Mix” obliterates that shortfall with a +1.2 to 6.6 (6+) and marches from seventh to fourth. This (6.6) is the strongest 6+-stat for “Mix” since December 2015’s 6.8. A collective -2.2 in three straight sweeps without an increase (6.5 – 5.4 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WKKV ends the slide with a one-half share increase to 4.8 (6+). Moreover, “V-100.7 Jams” enters the top ten (#11 to #8). Immediately prior to the February sweep, WKKV was an overall +2.0 via three successive gains (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.9 – 6.5, 6+). Following five straight sweeps at #1, classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” erodes by -1.5 (10.1 – 8.6, 6+) and segues to #2 with its lowest 6+-figure (8.6) since December 2018’s 7.7. Before shifting to #2 in October 2018, “Big FM” spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1; “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Its seven most recent moves are -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April); and -1.5 (May). While it is off a collective eight-tenths in three straight negative or flat trends (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 7.3, 6+) Saga Communications’ WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock” remains in third-place. As a result of dropping three-tenths to 4.0 (flat at #11, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance-owned alternative WLUM “102.1 Sounds Different” snaps at three its string of consecutive increases that netted a +1.8 (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+). January’s 2.5 is its lowest-ever 6+ PPM stat, while April’s 4.3 is its best since August 2017’s 4.3.

A -1.3 in March/April (5.7 – 4.8 – 4.4, 6+), Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” erases all but three-tenths of that shortfall with a +1.0 to 5.4 (tenth to seventh, 6+); WPLN-FM was a combined +2.1 in January/February (3.6 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+).

The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH is unchanged from April in 6+-share (2.0) and market rank (tenth), while WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH – locked on 1.6 (6+) in March and April – is up one-tenth to 1.7 (#13 to #12, 6+).

Providence Music Formats – Three mainstream CHRs appearing in Providence’s top twenty combine for a 10.8 (6+). Leading the way is Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-FM. Its April -.6 to 7.2 (6+) suspended three straight gains that netted a +1.4 (6.4- 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+); however, in May, “Today’s Hit Music – 92 PRO FM” is up two-tenths to 7.4 (6+) and climbs from fifth to fourth. March’s 7.8 is its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 8.4. Flat at #11, Townsquare Media’s WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” has lost more than 50% (-2.3) of its 6+-share in four straight reports without an increase (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+). Immediately in advance of this negative stretch, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Reaching the market from Boston (where it’s tied for #1 in May with a 7.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” is up a collective four-tenths through three straight up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5, #17 to #14, 6+). A ratings “no-show” until February 2019, Hall Communications’ classic hits-oldies WNBH (+.5 in May) not only more than triples (+.7) its 6+-stat in three straight upticks (.3 – .4 – .5 -1.0, 6+), “Big 101.3” breaks into the top twenty (#21 to #18). Improving by one-half share as well in May and also logging three consecutive improvements (for a collective +1.2) is iHeartMedia hot AC WSNE “Coast 93.3” (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). While it remains at #6, “Coast” reaches the five-share level (5.0, 6+) for the first time since October 2018’s 5.5. A four-tenth gain by co-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” (9.6 – 10.0, 6+), coupled with an equal magnitude decrease by Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” (9.7 – 9.3, 6+), results in WHJY moving from second to first and WWLI dropping from first to second. These two stations did the exact opposite dance in April. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. In second-place three sweeps in a row, “Lite Rock 105” posted a one-half share increase in April to progress to #1. Before shifting to the runner-up slot in January 2019, “Lite Rock 105” was #1 for six consecutive sweeps; “Holiday” 2018’s 16.2 is the highest 6+-stat for any Providence station since WWLI’s 18.0 in “Holiday” 2016. While it carries on in third-place, Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” surrenders two-tenths to 7.6 (6+), thus curtailing four straight gains that accounted for a +2.2 (5.6 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.4 – 7.8, 6+). That streak followed a collective -3.1 via three declines in succession (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9 – 5.6, 6+).

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.8 in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM is tied for the lead in May; “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” had sole possession of first-place in April. While November 2018’s 11.2 is WOKV-FM’s best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era, this is its lowest since September 2018 (8.6, as well).

Spoken-Word Formats – Up seven-tenths in three straight reports without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” continues at #9; 2.7 is its best 6+-showing since July 2018’s 2.9. Co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches” is flat at 2.3 (6+) but backslides from #11 to #12. Immediately after posting an April gain of eight-tenths, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” forfeits half that increase (2.1 – 1.7, -.4, 6+) and slips from #12 to #15. Three straight sweeps without a loss by WIOD resulted in the iHeartMedia Miami news/talker doubling (+.5) its 6+-stat (.5 – .7 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), but “610 News Radio” returns four-tenths to .6 (6+) and exits the West Palm Beach top twenty (#20 to #22).

Co-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” posted a .1 (6+) in August 2018 but has been a “no-show” in the subsequent ten sweeps.

By picking up one-tenth to 3.0 (flat at #8, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN halts three successive decreases that accounted for a loss of lost eight-tenths (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – A combined +1.2 in April/May (2.7 – 3.1 – 3.9, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WIRK “103.1 South Florida’s Country Music” jumps from seventh to fifth with its best 6+-showing (3.9) since September 2018’s 4.2. Notching its third successive West Palm Beach increase for a collective +1.0 (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+), iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” jumps from #14 to #11. Not to be outdone, co-owned/similarly-formatted WLDI “WiLD 95.5 The Palm Beaches’ #1 Hit Music Station” is +1.4 in five straight upticks (2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.9, sixth to fifth, 6+) and posts its best 6+-stat (3.9) since August 2018’s 4.0. Setting the pace the fifth month in a row, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF is nonetheless a combined -2.4 in April/May (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8, 6+); “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” enjoyed a +2.0 in March. Its March 11.2 is WRMF’s highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well); May 2019’s 8.8 is its lowest since “Holiday” 2017’s 8.2. Having faltered by -1.0 in January, WRMF was frozen on 9.2 (6+) in January and February. Unchanged at #4, urban AC sibling WMBX “X-102.3” erases its April gain of six-tenths to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2, with a shortfall of nine-tenths (5.3 – 5.9 – 5.0, 6+). The market’s two adult contemporary stations post modest April 2019 – May 2019 decreases. Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” is down one-tenth to 7.0 (6+) and Hubbard Broadcasting’s WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” is off two-tenths to 6.8 (6+); “Kool” and “Sunny” continue at second and third, respectively. “Kool” gained seven-tenths in April to 7.1, its best 6+-stat since July 2016’s 7.5. That followed March’s loss of one-tenth, which snapped at three its consecutive string of positive spikes that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). On the heels of a March increase of seven-tenths, “Sunny” eroded by -1.2 in April (8.2 – 7.1, 6+). WEAT-FM was a combined -3.2 in January/February (10.7 – 7.8 – 7.5, 6+).

Even though Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS regains the one-tenth it lost in April (.9 – .8 – .9, 6+), “Triad Sports” backslides from #14 to #15.

Holding down the #13 position for the 13thconsecutive time, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” answers April’s loss of seven-tenths with a May gain of two-tenths (2.3 – 1.6 – 1.8, 6+). University of North Carolinaat Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC recaptures April’s -.3 in its entirety (.8 – .5 – .8, 6+) and carries on at #17.

Greensboro Music Formats – The five most recent fluctuations for Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); and +1.1 in May (8.2 – 9.3, third to second, 6+). Prior to its March-only stay at #1, WSMW last reached #1 in August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Whereas March 2019’s 9.8 is its best 6+-performance since July 2018’s 10.0, April 2019’s 8.2 is its weakest in more than three years (8.1, March 2016). In three straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia’s WTQR was a cumulative -1.0 (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+), but “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” erases 70% of that deficit with a +.7 to 5.7 (eighth to sixth, 6+). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” substituted January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Its format rival – Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” – is off four-tenths in May and continues an alternating up/down pattern that has kept it within 5.2 – 5.7 range (5.2 – 5.7 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 5.3, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). Tacking on one-half share to April’s +.7 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ “105.7 – Man Up” continues at #11 with its best 6+-showing (3.7) since November 2018’s 4.0. Notching a May increase of one-half share as well is Dick Broadcasting’s WKRR “Rock 92,” which improves by seven-tenths in April/May (5.8 – 6.0 – 6.5, steady at #5, 6+) and flashes its highest 6+-stat (6.5) since July 2018’s 6.6. Up one-tenth (9.7 – 9.8, 6+), Entercom urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” repeats at #1. An April increase of six-tenths pulled the plug on five straight declines that resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). On top in January and February, WQMG’s consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) was snapped at 26 in January. A collective +1.8 via four consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss-FM” forfeits seven-tenths to 3.9 (6+) but remains in ninth-place. In April, “Kiss” reached the four-share level (4.6, 6+) for the first time since its 4.1 in April 2018. Unchanged at #7, Dick Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WKZL “107.5 The #1 Hit Music Station” has a February 2019 through May 2019 topline of 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.3 (6+). Despite a one-half share decline (4.4 – 3.9, 6+), Curtis Media Group regional Mexican WYMY “La Ley 101.1 FM” improves from tenth to a ninth-place tie.

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TALKERS 2019: Telling the Story Rocks New York City. The 22nd edition of the TALKERS magazine national convention took place on Friday (6/7) in New York City’s Chelsea District, drawing 400 talk media industry players to the Big Apple. The TALKERS 2019: Telling the Storyconference featured more than 65 speakers in a non-stop, power-packed day of solo addresses, panel discussions, presentations, and networking/meal receptions. The entire conference was recorded to video and in the days and weeks to come, most panels and speeches will be made available for viewing at Talkers.com. Visit regularly for details. Pictured above, Sean Hannity (r) being interviewed by Michael Harrison (l) during the convention’s Keynote Fireside Chat.

Bill O’Reilly Addresses Conference. Just a little more than a month after the debut of his Key Networks-syndicated “The O’Reilly Update” program returned him to AM/FM radio, Bill O’Reilly addressed the attendees at Friday’s TALKERS conference.

Rome Delivers. Sports talk radio star Jim Rome presented a keynote speech illustrating how he got into the sports talk radio business and how he’s adapted to the evolving talk media industry.

Woman of the Year. Pictured above is TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison (l) with Radio Advertising Bureau president and CEO Erica Farber (r), who received the 2019 Woman of the Year Award.

Humanitarian of the Year. Seen above accepting the 2019 Humanitarian of the Year honor from TALKERS magazine is Bold Gold Media Group CEO Vince Benedetto.

Helping Our Own. WPGG morning host Harry Hurley (r) donating $3,000 to the Broadcasters Foundation of America from the Hurley Morning Show Foundation – a yearly tradition at the Talkers Convention. Renee Cassis (l) accepts the gift on behalf of the BFOA.

Emmis Agrees to Selling Controlling Interest in Austin Cluster to Sinclair Telecable Inc. for $39.3 Million. Indianapolis-based Emmis Communications Corporation has had a controlling interest in the six Austin, Texas radio stations since 2003. Now, it is selling its 50.1% controlling interest in the partnership toSinclair Telecable, Inc., for $39.3 million. This is not the television company Sinclair Broadcast Group that owns KEYE-TV, Austin. Sinclair Telecable is led by Bob and David Sinclair and the company owns seven FMs, two AMs, and 2 FM translators in Norfolk, Virginia and in Sonoma County, California. The stations and brands involved in this deal are: news/talk KLBJ-AM, classic rock KLBJ-FM, adult hits KBPA-FM “Bob FM,” adult contemporary KGSR-FM “Star 93.3,” alternative KROX-FM “101X,” regional Mexican KLZT-FM “La Zeta,” and music brands “Austin City Limits Radio” and “Latino 102.7.” The Austin cluster will be rebranded as Waterloo Media. Emmis chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan says, “It’s been a fabulous run in Austin, operating in one of America’s best radio markets with such a special team and winning culture. I can’t say enough great things about the performance of our incredible team in Austin. Our focus at Emmis now will be on transitioning to new areas of growth. I’m thrilled to say we didn’t need to look far to find a committed, well-known buyer who feels the same way about the Austin team. The Sinclairs have been great partners and will undoubtedly take the operation to new heights.” Moelis & Company LLC represented Emmis as exclusive financial advisor.

Monday Memo: Digital Diction. As listener attention and advertiser dollars drift digital, radio broadcasters’ tool box gets bigger; and consultant Holland Cooke continues his three-part series of tips from Internet professionals. This week’s Monday Memo focuses on writing for the web. Cooke relays the advice, “Anyone can publish on the Web, but not everyone is publishing material that’s ideal for online reading…writing for digital is different than writing for print. Text that works best on the Web is text that gets right to the point fast and that makes it easy for readers to pick out information.” Get some tips for accomplishing that goal here.

Business Talker Ray Lucia to Retire from Broadcasting. Financial talk pro Ray Lucia is retiring from broadcasting after his last program on June 28. “The Ray Lucia Show” debuted on KFMB-AM in San Diego in 1990. The show was syndicated nationally in 2000 on Business Talk Radio Network, now known as BizTalkRadio. In 2006, the TV version of The Ray Lucia Show debuted on BizTV. Lucia says that after discussing it with his wife, they agreed the time is right. “I have spent decades telling others how to enjoy their retirement years, and it was time to listen to my own advice.” BizTV and BizTalkRadio COO Scott Miller says, “Very rarely does a radio and television program come along that both entertains and informs listeners and viewers. There is no doubt in my mind that thousands of families have benefited from Ray’s wisdom on how to manage money. He is from a generation of broadcasting that will be deeply missed.”

Radio Hall of Fame Names Nominees for Class of 2019. The 24 nominees for the Radio Hall of Fame’s Class of 2019 are named and voting begins today. The nominations in six categories were determined by the organization’s Nominating Committee. Four of those categories will be voted on by a voting participant panel comprised of nearly 1,000 industry professionals. Then, beginning on July 15, listeners nationwide will have the opportunity to vote on the other two categories. Inductees will be announced on August 5. Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig Kitchin comments, “Each year we have the privilege of coming together to acknowledge those who have tremendously impacted our industry and the audiences they serve. We’re all proud to present our 2019 nominees.” The inductees in the four categories voted by the industry are: Longstanding Local/Regional (20 years or more): Bob Rivers, Charles Laquidara, Harry Harrison, and Jack Harris. Active Local/Regional (10 years or more): Angie Martinez, Kevin and Bean, Preston and Steve, and Sarah and Vinnie. Longstanding Network/Syndication (20 years or more): Jim Rome, Robert Siegel, Sid Mark, and “Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me!” Active Network/Syndication (10 years or more): George Noory, Glenn Beck, John Tesh, Kim Komando. The two categories voted by the public are: Music Format On-Air Personality: Hollywood Hamilton, Lon Helton, Mark & Brian Show, Ryan Seacrest. Spoken Word On-Air Personality: Joe Madison, Scott Slade, Stephanie Miller, and Suzyn Waldman.

Lis Wiehl Exits WOR. There’s no press statement from iHeartMedia about the change in the evening show on news/talk WOR, New York, but Lis Wiehl has left the “WOR Tonight with Joe Concha & Lis Wiehl” program that aired from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Wiehl and Concha were partnered for the show at the beginning of this year. Concha now hosts the show solo, according to the station’s website. Wiehl is an attorney, best-selling author, and has served as a legal analyst for several media platforms.

Sports KYAL-FM, Tulsa Names RJ Young Host of Midday Show. The station names RJ Young host of the 9:00 am to 11:00 am show, previously titled “The Sports Mix” that featured a rotating cast of hosts. The Tulsa Worldreports that Young came to the attention of KYAL-FM management after he posted more than 1,000 videos of his sports commentary to YouTube. He tells the paper, “Unbelievable opportunity. If you had told me a few months ago that I would have this platform, I would have kicked you in the shins. I would have laughed. To do sports talk radio in such a great sports state — this is an amazing privilege and honor.” At the same time, the station names market sports personality Erik Gee as co-host of the 11:00 am to 2:00 pm program with Pat Jones.

Hubbard Radio Talent Institute Gets Underway Today. Today the Hubbard Radio Talent Institute begins on the campus of Central Washington University. Over the coming 10 days, students enrolled in the program will hear and meet radio pros from Hubbard, Alpha Media, Bonneville, iHeartMedia, Townsquare Media and others. Each broadcaster teaches in his or her area of expertise, ranging from on-air, sports, news, sales, digital, podcasting, promotions, videography, engineering, and practically all aspects of the business. All sessions are on the CWU campus except for one day in Seattle when students are welcomed to Bonneville Seattle Media Group by VP/market manager David Pridemore, 710 ESPN’s Mike Salk and others, followed by a trip to KIRO-TV. The Hubbard Radio Talent Institute is the third of eight Radio Talent Institutes this summer from the National Radio Talent System, along with the Beasley Radio Talent Institute at Emerson College in Boston; Kellar Radio Talent Institute, Appalachian State University in North Carolina; TAB Radio Talent Institute at the University of Tennessee; Confer Radio Talent Institute at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania; GAB Radio Talent Institute at the University of Georgia; KBA WKU Radio Talent Institute at Western Kentucky University and the MBA Radio Talent Institute at Northwest Missouri State University.

Trump in England/D-Day Anniversary, 2020 Presidential Race, Impeachment Talk, Mexico Tariffs Averted, Hong Kong Protest, U.S.-China Relations, Big Tech Anti-Trust Investigation, and NHL/NBA Finals Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of President Trump’s state visit to the U.K. and the 75th anniversary of the Invasion of Normandy; the Democrats vying to face Trump in 2020; the intensification of Democrats’ impeachment talk; Trump pulls back on Mexico tariffs threat; the massive Hong Kong protest against new extradition to China law; U.S. relations with China and Trump’s tariffs; the investigation into possible anti-trust practices by Big Tech firms; and the NHL and NBA finals were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Tampa Bay, iHeartMedia names Nick Wize assistant program director and afternoon drive host at CHR WFLZ-FM. iHeartMedia Tampa Bay SVP of programming Tommy Chuck says, “I’ve known Nick for years and have seen his love for radio up close. He’s creative, driven and has performed at a high level throughout his career. I am excited to have Nick by my side as we continue to build on 93.3 FLZ’s incredible 30-year history!” Wize comes to Tampa after having served iHeartMedia as APD and air talent at the company’s KRQQ, Tucson…..Sad news in the iHeartMedia family as WLLR, Quad Cities afternoon personality Bo J. Spates died in his sleep on Saturday night (6/8). The station is paying tribute to Spates during his show today (6/10).

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI –As listener attention and advertiser dollars drift digital, radio broadcasters’ tool box gets bigger. In last week’s column, we listed tips from the pros for improving the pictures and videos we’re publishing on blogs and station web sites and in Social Media. ICYMI: Camera Technique for Radio

This week, technique for text, because – as the voluminous and useful Yahoo! Style Guide warns — “Anyone can publish on the Web, but not everyone is publishing material that’s ideal for online reading.”

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TALKERS 2019 Heavy Hundred Published Today. The 2019 edition of TALKERS magazine’s “100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America” – also known as the Heavy Hundred – has been published. This is the 25thedition of the Heavy Hundred that is compiled by the editors of TALKERSmagazine and inclusion is based upon a combination of hard factors such as ratings, revenue and longevity, plus soft factors including effort, impact, recognition, service, talent and uniqueness. Executive editor Kevin Casey says, “As the editorial staff was preparing to publish the Heavy Hundred, we reflected on the 25-year history of this list – especially how challenging it is to whittle the thousands of hosts doing a talk radio program in America today down to the 100 most important. That said, we are excited to publish this year’s list and we believe it represents an honest reflection of the state of talk radio today.” See 2019 Heavy Hundred here.

Cumulus Makes PD Changes in New York; Craig Schwalb Exits WABC. TALKERS magazine hears from several sources that program director Craig Schwalb has exited Cumulus Media’s news/talk WABC. The change was made on Friday and our sources tell us that programmer Dave LaBrozzi – until Friday the program director for hot AC WPLJ – will program WABC and sister urban contemporary WNBM. Cumulus also let WNBM PD and VP/urban programming Ken Johnson go on Friday. Prior to joining WABC, Schwalb served as program director with Cumulus at Providence news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM.

FAIR Announces Dates for 2019 ‘Hold Their Feet to the Fire’ Radio Row. The Federation for American Immigration Reform announces today that the 13th annual Hold Their Feet to the Fire radio row will take place on Wednesday and Thursday, September 25-26 at the Phoenix Park Hotel on Capitol Hill in Washington. DC. As in years past, this event brings together talk hosts from across the nation to broadcast live while debating immigration policy interviewing members of Congress, law enforcement officials, experts, activists, administration officials, and those who live and work along the Southern border. FAIR says the event has evolved greatly since the first one in 2006. “F2F now hosts 70 stations and has become the largest annual radio row and the centerpiece of the immigration debate each year for the media. Unfortunately, several things have not changed – a stagnant status quo of lax enforcement and open borders, obstructionist Democratic positions, hostile courts and a complicit mainstream media. So, in September, radio hosts are back at it discussing, debating, sorting truth from fiction, hearing first-hand accounts and considering reasonable solutions. At a minimum, barriers have to be built, asylum loopholes closed, more resources brought to bear, and the rule of law enforced. Most importantly, Americans – not special interests – will be heard from.” Talk hosts and programmers wishing to take part should know that reservations are required, and hosts/producers should call FAIR now to reserve their spot. There is no cost to attend and all technical engineering and expenses are taken care of by FAIR. Congressional guests, activists, high profile media personalities, and immigration experts will be in attendance and available throughout the event for wall-to-wall interviews. Contact Matthew Tragesser, event manager, 202-328-7004 or mtragesser@fairus.org.

Monday Memo: Camera Tips for Radio. In this week’s Monday Memo, consultant Holland Cooke presents the first in a three-part series of tips from digital professionals. With radio broadcasters scrambling to populate all the platforms with which they share listeners’ attention (and advertisers’ do-re-mi), HC begins with advice from photo pros for taking and presenting quality pictures. Read the column here.

WGDJ, Albany Suspends Host After Controversial Social Media Post. “Talk 1300” general manager Paul Vandenburgh announced on the website of news/talk WGDJ, Albany that afternoon drive talk host Kevin McCashion is suspended from his program after issuing a social media post that some are calling insensitive. McCashion’s tweet attacked the Albany Times Union for its coverage of the Memorial Day death of a former local female high school basketball star. Twenty-one-year-old Ayanna Hunter died after being shot at a cookout. McCashion’s tweet showed two images, one of Hunter posing with a stack of money, with the text, “another.@timesunion W H I T E W A S H just an innocent basketball player ha ha.” Vandenburgh stated, “Ayanna Hunter was shot and killed in Niskayuna and Kevin posted an untimely, unwanted and unnecessary Twitter comment and rightfully so, many people were upset.” He says he’ll address the situation with McCashion today (6/3). See the Times-Union story here.

TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk radio host Dana Loesch adds new affiliate stations. Syndicator Radio America announces: KXRA-AM Alexandria, Minnesota, KONA-AM, Tri-Cities, Washington, KGYN-AM, Guymon, Oklahoma; KMPT-AM/FM, East Missoula, Montana; WMJD-FM Grundy, Virginia; WDRC-AM, Hartford; WMMW-AM, New Haven; WSNG-AM, Torrington, Connecticut; WJML-AM, Petoskey, Michigan; WJNL-AM, Kingsley, Michigan; WHAK-AM, Rogers City, Michigan; WWMN-FM, Thompsonville, Michigan; and WYPV-FM, Mackinaw City, Michigan all add “The Dana Show” to their program lineups…..The Westwood One-syndicated “Mark Levin Show” joins the program schedule at Entercom’s news/talk WYRD-FM, Greenville, South Carolina “106.3 WORD.” Entercom Greenville SVP and market manager Steve Sinicropi comments, “Mark Levin is a seasoned radio host and has one of the biggest shows in talk radio. His program is topical and drives passion. This addition delivers on our commitment to continuously provide the best and most relevant content to our listeners.”…..Former WEEI, Boston morning personality Kirk Minihane – who recently cut a deal with Entercom to get out of his contract with the company – is joining Barstool Sports. The sports media personality said during a Periscope video that he’ll be doing a daily podcast “live to tape” starting June 15…..Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs’ GCN-distributed program is adding WSLA, Slidell, Louisiana to its roster of affiliate stations…..iHeartMedia Twin Cities, the University of Minnesota, and its multimedia rightsholder, Gopher Sports Properties, announce an extension of the broadcast agreement for KFXN “KFAN-FM 100.3,” KTLK-AM/K278BP, and “KFAN Plus 96.7 FM” (K244FE) to continue to serve as the Gophers’ flagship radio stations through the 2022-2023 athletic season…..Shep Rose, star of Bravo’s hit TV show, “Southern Charm,” launches a new podcast on PodcastOne titled, “Enough About Me.” The program will also feature interviews with athletes, teachers, soldiers, stunt men, and even himself in this “weird, wild, funny and dramatic,” weekly show.

Virginia Beach Mass Shooting, Mueller News Conference/Impeachment Talk, Trump Visits UK, 2020 Presidential Race, U.S.-China Tensions, Middle East Peace Plan, and Rocketman Film Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The deadly shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center that took the lives of 12; the aftermath of special counsel Robert Mueller’s news conference and Democrats’ talk of impeachment; President Trump embarks on an official visit to the UK; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the tariff wars and the tense relations between the U.S. and China; Jared Kushner’s Middle East peace plan and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s calling it “unexecutable”; and the Elton John biopic, Rocketman were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Health Media Personality Asa to Executive Produce and Co-Host Discovery Life TV Show. Radio host, author, television personality and medical doctor Asa Andrew will serve as executive producer and co-host for the second season of the Discovery Life series, “Reversed.” Co-hosting the show with Asa will be celebrity chef Charles Mattocks. The first season of the show was designed as reality TV intended to present the powerful effects of unmanaged diabetes and the hope of reversal. This new season will showcase the struggles and the triumphs of individuals living with cancer as they work to radically transform their lifestyle choices. Asa says, “This season is personal. Cancer took my father’s life at age 68, now I’m on a mission to help others before it’s too late. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The show will have an evidence-based team of nutritionists, trainers, doctors, therapists, and celebrity guests focused on the common goal of improving the health and well-being of each person living with cancer. Asa and Mattocks are producing the show via their company, WellTent Media Group LLC.

13thAnnual Kellar Radio Talent Institute Begins Today. The 13th annual Kellar Radio Talent Institute at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina begins today. Twenty-four students from three universities have been accepted into this year’s 10-day institute during which more than 40 broadcast pros from Beasley Media Group, Entercom, iHeartMedia, Radio One, Capitol Broadcasting, Dick Broadcasting, along with Doug Rice, president and voice of Performance Racing Network, Mick Mixon, play-by-play announcer for the Carolina Panthers, Don Anthony from Talk Show and Morning Show Bootcamp, Warren Kurtzman president of Coleman Research, and others, will lead sessions for the students. This summer, National Radio Talent System Institutes are taking place across the country. They include the Beasley Radio Talent Institute at Emerson College in Boston; GAB Radio Talent Institute, University of Georgia; TAB Radio Talent Institute at the University of Tennessee; Confer Radio Talent Institute at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania; Hubbard Radio Talent Institute at Central Washington University; KBA WKU Radio Talent Institute at Western Kentucky University and the MBA Radio Talent Institute at Northwest Missouri State University.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Chuck “DZL” Thompson is the new program director at iHeartMedia’s country WKKT, Charlotte “96.9 The Kat.” iHeartMedia regional SVP for the Virginia-Carolina region Chadwick “A.J.” Hausknecht says, “DZL’s unique insight on the market, coupled with his talent, creativity and innovative style of thinking will ensure that the station continues to do great things in Charlotte. Because of his vision and passion, I’m thrilled to have DZL lead our team at ‘96.9 The Kat.’”…..On-air pro Shelby Sos is named evening personality at iHeartMedia’s CHR WZFT “Z104.3.” She comes to Baltimore from the company’s WIHT, Washington “HOT 99.5” where she was an assistant producer for “The Kane Show.” iHM Baltimore SVP of programming Mike Preston says, “Shelby brings so much experience from ‘The Kane Show’ to her new position at ‘Z104.3.’ Shelby is immensely talented and really knows how to engage an audience. We can’t wait to have her on the air in her hometown to shake things up!”…..The Sun Broadcast Group-syndicated “Woody & Wilcox Show” adds new affiliate stations. Now airing the show are: WCYY, Portland; WQRR, Tuscaloosa; and WVWB, Clarksville, Tennessee…..Programming pro Brian Thomas joins Townsquare Media where he’ll serve as operations manager for the company’s Grand Rapids stations as well as the company’s 17 classic hits-formatted stations. Thomas was most recently with Cumulus Media Atlanta as PD for country WKHX “Kicks 101.5.”

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PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s April 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk radio. The transition from the March PPM survey to the April PPM survey was good to about a third of the news/talk stations on our panel who saw their weekly, 6+ AQH share go up. But, 44% of news/talkers saw their numbers fall. Comparing April 2018 to April 2019 data, almost half of the news/talk stations on our panel were down (49%) and 41% were up, led by Entercom’s WTIC-AM, Hartford (+1.8), Cumulus Media’s WBAP, Dallas (+1.5), and iHeartMedia’s WREC, Memphis (+1.2). In April, three news/talk stations ranked #1 in their respective markets: Entercom’s KMOX, St. Louis; Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Middlesex; and Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM, Jacksonville. See all the data in Mike Kinosian’s report here.

FOX Sports Radio’s Clay Travis Debuts New ‘Wins & Losses’ Podcast. Sports media personality Clay Travis – host of FOX Sports Radio’s daily “Outkick the Coverage” program – is premiering a new iHeartRadio Original Podcast called, “Wins & Losses with Clay Travis,” on the iHeartPodcast Network. The show will feature “candid, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports, entertainment, business, and beyond, who will discuss their inspiring journeys to success, including their wins and losses along the way.” The first episode includes a conversation with sports journalist Jason Whitlock. Travis says, “I love doing daily radio, but most of the time, it’s about reacting to the most recent 24 hours of news – the game that ended the night before, the big free agent signing, the latest player, coach or owner to run afoul of the law. My goal with this new podcast is to create a series of long-form conversations with fascinating people that are just as good a year from now, or even five years from now, as they are today.”

Monday Memo: Be Yourself. This week’s Monday Memo from consultant Holland Cooke comes a day late thanks to the Memorial Day holiday. Today, Cooke shares some simple advice for talk radio hosts and DJs from Howard Stern, Rush Limbaugh, Oscar Wilde, and even Dr. Seuss, who happens to share a birthplace with HC. Read it here.

Trump’s Japan Visit, Midwest Weather, U.S.-China Relations/Trade War, 2020 Presidential Race, European Nationalist Movements/Anti-Semitism, Memorial Day Holiday, and Mt. Everest Deaths Among Top News/Talk Stories over the Weekend. The president’s visit to Japan; the devastating storms that swept across Ohio; China’s anger over John Bolton’s meeting with Taiwan leaders and the U.S.-China trade war; the Democrats vying to challenge Donald Trump in 2020; the weekend’s elections in European nations that saw victories for nationalist politicians and the related rise of anti-Semitism across the Continent; the Memorial Day holiday; and deaths on the crowded peak of Mt. Everest were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Saga’s Nystrom on Brand Building and Digital Attribution. In a piece published in Medium, Saga Communications VP of digital media Matt Nystrom pens an “open letter to my colleagues in the radio industry” in which he says that “appetites for on-demand information have traditional media sellers feeling compelled to measure the efficacy of their products in ways that undermine their core strengths.” Specifically, he notes that digital attribution – measuring hits on a client’s website shortly after their spot airs on the radio to monitor traffic – is fraught with accuracy problems. It’s understandable that radio wants to compete in the digital landscape, but it shouldn’t do so at the expense of its strength as a brand builder. The problem is that brand building takes time and advertisers want immediate results. Read his piece here.

TALKERS News Notes. The program schedule at Hubbard Radio’s sports talk KSTP-AM, Minneapolis-St. Paul “Skor North” changes this week with the addition of the daily “Twins Show” airing from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm. The station’s Vikings show, “Purple Daily,” moves to the 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm slot hosted by Matthew Collier…..WFMZ-TV, Reading, Pennsylvania reports that a local businessman may be the savior of news/talk WEEU, Reading. The station is owned by the Reading Eagle Company – currently in bankruptcy protection – whose assets are being sold to MediaNews Group. MediaNews Group does not want the station and says it will shut it down after the sale closes. Enter local businessman Hamid Chaudhry. He says he is interested in buying the station, telling the TV station, “I can’t imagine Berks County without WEEU. It has a strong base. It just needs somebody with a little bit of a vision who can change things.”…..Chicago media reporter Robert Federwrites that Entercom is promoting Chicago news pro Jim Gudas to full-time reporter on the afternoon/evening shift on WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, taking the position that opened up when Bob Roberts retired last month. Gudas previously served with Tribune’s crosstown WGN-AM and with the old WMAQ-AM…..Pictured below is “Radio’s Best Friend” Art Vuolo (right) with Indianapolis 500 winner Simon Pagenaud (left). Vuolo was in Indy to visit the Bob & Tom Carb Day remote broadcast at the Indy 500 grounds when he took the pic with Pagenaud. Little did he know that Pagenaud would win the race!

Music Radio News and Career Moves. The nationally syndicated “The Ace & TJ Show” is now the morning program on iHeartMedia’s CHR WMKS, Greensboro “100.3 KISS FM.” Station program director Keith Allen says, “Pop culture fans in Greensboro have been dying to have a morning show to call their own and I’m excited for them to be able to wake up and listen to this top-rated show. Ace and TJ’s morning show is incredibly entertaining and I know it will truly resonate with the Triad audience.”…..Entercom appoints Andrea Hansen station manager and director of sales for its Madison trio of music stations – triple A WMMM “105.5 Triple M,” classic hits WOLX, and hot AC WMHX “MIX 105.1.” She’s been serving the stations as general sales manager since 2015. Entercom Madison SVP and market manager Chuck Sullivan says, “Andrea has done a tremendous job leading our sales team and is an invaluable resource to the culture of our company. She has been instrumental in the growth of our client base and the training of the team.”…..Adams Radio Group LLC is agreeing to sell oldies WLYV-AM and translator W282CH in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Brian Walsh, owner of oldies WIOE-FM, South Whitley, Indiana.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — It’s an Oscar Wilde quote: “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” Consultant-wary talent has been overheard muttering, about the consultant: “He had to take a connecting flight to come all the way here to tell me THAT?”

Howard Stern’s autobiographical movie “Private Parts” demonstrates how nonconformity was his turning point. To that point, don’t-say “The Democrat’ Party.” It’s like a fax went out one morning, and all the Rush wanna-be’s forevermore aped this phrase, spoken as a put-down. It’s “the Democratic Party.” And if it isn’t, wouldn’t that make the other guys “The Republic’ Party?” Instead of doing his act, do yours.

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Vince Benedetto Selected to Receive TALKERS 2019 “Humanitarian of the Year” Award. One of the rising stars in the field of independent radio station ownership, Vince Benedetto, founder and CEO of Bold Gold Media Group has been selected by the TALKERS editorial board to be the 2019 recipient of “The Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Talk Radio Broadcaster” – also known as the “Humanitarian of the Year” award. Locally owned, operated and programmed, Bold Gold was founded by Benedetto in 2005 with the aim of becoming the preeminent radio broadcast group in Northeast Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. Bold Gold serves three primary regions: The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, The Pocono Lake Region (Northern Pocono Mountains), and the Catskill Mountains of New York.​ It consists of a combination of 14 music- and talk-formatted stations. Before entering broadcasting as an entrepreneur, Benedetto was a U.S. Air Force captain who also served as a special agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigation (known as OSI). Special agents for OSI are responsible for conducting felony level investigations and engaging in counter-intelligence and counter-terrorism activities world-wide in support of our Air Force and Department of Defense operations. Benedetto came under consideration for the TALKERS award for the work he has done in establishing the Bold Gold Broadcast and Media Foundation – a not-for-profit, 501(c) (3) organization with a mission of supporting the education and training of tomorrow’s broadcast and media leaders. Bold Gold, through its fundraising and charitable efforts, provides education and training support, as well as funding to educational institutions and organizations who are preparing America’s future communicators. The organization also works to raise awareness of the importance of young thought-leaders seeking a career in the field of broadcasting, media, and journalism. One of the Foundation’s first major projects was to build WRFH-FM (101.7 FM)/WRFH-LP “Radio Free Hillsdale” at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. The new campus-based radio station that signed on the air in 2015 offers students an opportunity to receive both academic and first-hand experience in the art of communicating over the airwaves to large audiences. The foundation’s second project was to build a recording studio at the Allan P. Kirby Center of ​Constitutional Studies and Citizenship located in the heart of Washington, DC. The studio, also dedicated in 2015, is used by the Kirby Center to further its mission of teaching the U.S. Constitution, the debate that brought it to life, and the principles that give it meaning. In addition to Kirby Center staff, the studio is also used by Hillsdale College faculty and students, visiting broadcasters and journalists, and national leaders. The “Humanitarian of the Year” award will be presented to Vince Benedetto at Talkers 2019: Telling the Story on Friday, June 7 in New York City. The convention is four days away from being completely sold out. To register, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413 or click here for more information.

ONLY FOUR DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER: Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Nearing a Sellout! The 22nd annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national convention is on the verge of being sold out. The final deadline for registrations being accepted is this Friday, May 24 at 5:00 pm ET. According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “In order to maintain the intimacy and effectiveness of this heritage event, it must be open only to members of the media industries and be in a special type of venue with limited seating and capacity. We have resisted the impulse to grow this event beyond that level of efficiency. That is one of the reasons it is so popular and has enjoyed such amazing longevity.” To obtain registration information and avoid being shut out before the deadline, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. For an up to the minute agenda, please click here.

Monday Memo: Them. Long-ago English teacher Holland Cooke turns in a book report sure to challenge those of us in talk radio. In Them: Why We Hate Each Other, How to Heal, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a Nebraska Republican, details how media feed and exploit our angry national conversation; and where we go from here. See HC’s entire column here.

‘Andy and Randy’ New Midday Show at ‘92.9 The Game’ in Atlanta. Sports talk WZGC-FM, Atlanta “92.9 The Game” announces its new midday show is “The Midday Show with Andy and Randy,” – hosted by Andy Bunker and Randy McMichael. Bunker moves to middays from his evening show with the station and McMichael – who enjoyed an 11-year NFL career – has been hosting the Saturday morning “College Game Time” show at the station. They take over for John Michaels and Rick Kamla, who exited the station in March. Entercom Atlanta SVP and market manager Rick Caffey says, “Andy has been a listener favorite since he joined ‘92.9 The Game’ and has built great chemistry with Randy. Andy and Randy’s collaboration, along with their bold and honest take on Atlanta sports, will be a great addition to our programming.”

TALKERS News Notes. The latest book from nationally syndicated radio talk show host Mark Levin bump’s Howard Stern’s newest memoir from its perch as the top-selling book on Amazon. Levin’s book is titled, Unfreedom of the Press (Threshold Editions, 2019), and has achieved the top ranking based on pre-order sales…..Former KIRO-FM, Seattle afternoon drive personalities Ron Upshaw and Don O’Neill are launching a weekly podcast and a real estate company 18 weeks after being let go by the Bonneville news/talk outlet. The Seattle Times reports that the popular duo, whose contracts were not renewed, have both earned their real estate brokers licenses and have formed Ron and Don Brokers with Windermere Real Estate. Read the story here…..Alexandria, Minnesota news/talk outlet KXRA-AM is adding another FM signal to its broadcasts. The Paradis Broadcasting-owned station broadcasts on its 1490 AM frequency as well as on translator K262AT at 100.3 FM. Now, the company is adding a second translator at 105.7 that will allow it to cover Pope County…..TALKERS magazine sends condolences to the family and friends of WVON, Chicago overnight personality Alpheus “Ywain” Fields, who died at his home on Saturday (5/18) at the age of 57. Fields first joined WVON in 1983 as an intern. He was soon hired as a board operator and production assistant. During his 36-year career with the station he served in numerous capacities in the programming department.

Nashville Talk Host Phil Valentine Renews with WWTN-FM. Talk radio pro Phil Valentine inks a new, long-term deal with Cumulus Media to continue hosting his daily, afternoon drive show on WWTN-FM, Nashville “99.7 SuperTalk.” Cumulus says that in addition to hosting his program, the new deal includes Valentine working with the company “on a variety of projects, including the development and creation of original content podcasts, and other multimedia projects and events.” The first in a series of podcasts to launch is PodGOATS, hosted by newcomer Campbell Valentine and co-hosted by his father, Phil Valentine. The show is “a dynamic conversation between a Baby Boomer and a Millennial with thought-provoking and hilarious discussions on everything from what they would possibly do if the grid went down, to spies, to the top historical events that changed the world to religion.” Phil Valentine says, “I was the morning guy when we launched ‘SuperTalk 99.7WTN’ back in 1995. That’s where I started in talk radio. I plan to finish my career at WTN sometime way down the road. This is home, and I’m glad to be here for the long haul.”

Nolan to Lead Townsquare Media’s Quincy-Hannibal Operations. Sales and management pro Libby Nolan is joining Townsquare Media’s Quincy-Hannibal, Missouri operations to serve as market president and chief revenue officer. Nolan was most recently with Entercom and Emmis in St. Louis as general sales manager. Townsquare’s Quincy-Hannibal cluster includes news/talk KHMO-AM, country KICK-FM, classic country KICK-AM, and adult contemporary KRRY. Townsquare regional VP Kelly Quinn says, “Libby is a perfect match for what we look for in a leader at Townsquare. She brings with her exceptional experience in building sales teams and utilizing local talent to its fullest potential, which will enhance our ‘Local First’ approach in Quincy-Hannibal.”

Justin Amash Impeachment Tweet, U.S.-China Trade War, U.S.-Iran War Talk, New Anti-Abortion Laws, Trump Immigration Plan, ‘Game of Thrones’ Finale, and NBA/NHL Playoff Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Michigan Republican Congressman Justin Amash issues a tweet saying President Trump has committed impeachable offenses; the tariffs the U.S. and China are planning to place on each other’s exports; President Trump’s warning to Iran to “never threaten the U.S. again”; the highly restrictive abortion law passed in Alabama and a similar bill expected to become law in Missouri; the Trump administration’s immigration plan; the finale of HBO’s “Game of Thrones”; and NBA/NHL playoff action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Michelle Stevens joins Entercom’s New York operations to serve as assistant program director for hot AC WNEW-FM and classic hits WCBS-FM. Stevens comes to Entercom from her most recent position as director of brand management for Connoisseur Media. Entercom New York market manager Susan Larkin states, “Michelle possesses valuable expertise in programming and talent development, and she will be a much-welcomed asset to our stations. She has a stellar track record for developing top-rated brands and we are looking forward to her contributions at two of New York’s most loved stations.”…..Hubbard Radio’s country KNUC, Seattle “New Country 98.9 The Bull” names Wingnut the station’s midday personality, hosting the 9:00 am to 2:00 pm program. Additionally, he’ll serve as APD and music director. Station PD Scott Mahalick says, “You can have the best strategy in the best building in the world, but if you don’t have Wingnut in your hallways you’re only half steppin’. I’m proud to say we have us a Wingnut in OUR hallways!” Wingnut was previously afternoon drive host and APD/MD at Entercom’s crosstown country KKWF “100.7 The Wolf.”…..At Milwaukee non-commerical triple A WYMS “88Nine Radio Milwaukee,” music journalist Evan Rytlewski is named web editor for the station’s site. Rytlewski served as music editor for the local alt-weekly Shepherd Express for 13 years and has been a regular contributor to Pitchfork, among other national music publications…..Envision Networks’ nationally syndicated rock show “The Chop Shop” celebrates its 15th anniversary. The program is hosted by WRIF-Detroit’s Steve Black, who says, “My love of rock ‘n’ roll directed me into radio nearly 30 years ago. It was that same passion that opened these shows to syndication 15 years ago. And I see the impact music makes on our lives every day. Some of my happiest moments are helping listeners find new music or remember a special moment attached to one of their favorite songs.”

April 2019 PPM Data – Part Four. April 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s April 2019 survey period covered March 28 – April 24. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets.

January 2019 through April 2019 fluctuations by KUT are +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (March); and a mammoth -2.0 in April (9.5 – 7.5, 6+). On top the past three months, the University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk outlet segues to second-place with its lowest 6+-showing (7.5) since August 2018’s 7.1.

Austin Music Formats – The (6+) adult contemporary share in Texas’ capital city balloons by +2.4. Leading the way is Entercom’s KKMJ “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday,” whose nine latest report-to-report shifts are: -1.2 (September 2018); +1.2 (October); -.5 (November); +1.2 (December); +2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); -4.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.5 (March); and +1.5 in April (5.0 – 6.5, seventh to third, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 9.5 represents its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (12.4). In early-March, Emmis flipped KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” to adult contemporary “Star 93.3.” While off nine-tenths in its first sweep in the new format, “Star” erases that deficit completely with a magnitude-matching April increase (1.1 – 2.0, +.9, #20 to #16, 6+). Meanwhile, co-owned triple A KGSR-HD2 debuts with a .8 (#23, 6+). A robust +1.2 by iHeartMedia’s KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country” (5.7, eighth to fifth, 6+) puts an end to its November 2018 through March 2019 alternating up/down pattern (5.4 – 5.6 – 3.7 – 4.9 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+). Particularly noteworthy in that timeframe, KASE plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and lost six-tenths in February. Directly after posting a January +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin, Texas Original” is -1.3 in three straight decreases (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.9, sixth to eighth, 6+). The market’s other country player – Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” – is unchanged from March in 6+-share (2.0) and market rank (#16). A January drop of one-tenth interrupted three straight increases that nearly doubled (+1.1) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+). Improving by three-tenths in March/April (8.4 – 8.6 – 8.7, 6+), Emmis adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” progresses from the runner-up slot to #1. This is the first time that “Bob” occupies the top spot since December 2018 when KBPA scored an 8.3 (6+). Conversely, regional Mexican sibling KLZT “107.1 La Z,” which was +1.2 in March (5.5 – 6.7, 6+), surrenders two-thirds of that increase (5.9, -.8, third to fourth, 6+). Prior to March, KLZT last reached the six-share level in October 2016 (6.1). After finishing with a 1.0 in March (#21, 6+), Principle Broadcasting Foundation triple A KDRP-LP “Sun Radio – The Best Music Under The Sun” vanishes from print.

Raleigh Music Formats – The three latest shifts by iHeartMedia’s WRDU “Classic Rock 100.7” are +.6 (February); -.8 (March); and +.9 in April (5.4 – 6.3, seventh to fifth, 6+). Moreover, this (6.3) is its best 6+-showing since September 2015’s 6.5. Co-owned WNCB posts an impressive April gain of nine-tenths as well (2.9, #15 to #13, 6+), wiping away February/March’s loss of six-tenths (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+). “New Country B-93.9” logs its highest 6+-stat since September 2018 (also 2.9). Meanwhile, its format foe – Curtis Media Group’s WQDR “94.7 Today’s Best Country” – tacks on seven-tenths to a March gain of three-tenths (6.2 – 6.5 – 7.2, 6+), and climbs from fifth to fourth. Since debuting in print in “Holiday” 2018, classic country cluster-mate WQDR-AM “Just Right Country – AM 570” has a 6+ topline of: .1 – .1 – .4 – .8 – .8 (#21). Even though it is a collective -1.5 in three straight down or flat trends (11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 for the ninth straight time. Entering the March sweep, its five previous fluctuations were +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019) to 11.0, WFXC’s highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era; and -1.1 in February. A combined -1.6 in March/April (7.8 – 7.3 – 6.2, 6+), urban contemporary sibling WQOK “K-97.5” drops from third to sixth. This follows three straight sweeps without a loss that yielded two-tenths (7.6 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). On the heels of a March decrease of six-tenths, Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WRTP “His Radio” falters by another seven-tenths (2.5 – 1.9 – 1.2, #16 to #20, 6+). As a result of regressing by one-half share to 3.2 (#11 to #12, 6+), Curtis Media Group CHR WPLW “Pulse FM All The Hits” concludes at three its consecutive string of up or flat moves that led to a gain of eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+). March’s 3.7 is its highest 6+-stat since June 2018’s 3.8. Similarly-formatted WDCG, which was +1.5 in January/February (4.5 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+), is a combined -.9 in March/April (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.1, 6+) as iHeartMedia-owned “G-105 Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” slips from seventh to ninth. Curtis Media Group-owned regional Mexican WYMY “La Ley 101.1” is a collective -1.4 in four straight reports without an increase (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+), but advances from #17 to #16.

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – To say the least, the nine most recent ratings periods have been a wild rollercoaster ride for Emmis news/talk WIBC. In that stretch, “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” has been: -.7 (September); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); -.9 (December); -.9(“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); and -1.2 in April (6.4 – 5.2, sixth to eighth, 6+). The high points (7.2, 6+) came in November and February, while April’s 5.2 is the lowest 6+-stat in that timeframe.

All but one-tenth of Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI’s collective +1.5 in three gains in succession (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 5.7, 6+) is obliterated by an April -1.4 to 4.3 (6+); WFYI departs the top ten (#7 to #11).

Indianapolis Music Formats – While perhaps not quite as volatile as the recent ratings history of Emmis news/talk WIBC (noted above), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5” has experienced some significant shifts lately. It was a whopping +2.9 in January (virtually eliminating December/“Holiday” 2018’s -3.0); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); and +1.7 in April (8.5 – 10.2, 6+). Not only is WJJK #1 for the fourth month in a row, it registers the highest 6+-share (10.2) in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing October 2018’s 10.0. After spending six straight sweeps on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January. A non-Christmas music month +1.7 would usually grab top honors for largest increase in a market, but WJJK’s feat is outdone by Emmis adult contemporary WYXB, which is +1.9 to 8.8 (6+), as “B-105.7” progresses from third to second. The huge uptick applies the brakes to three negative moves in succession that accounted for a roughly 58% (-9.5) loss of its 6+ AQH share (16.4 – 7.6 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+). It leaps over Cumulus Media’s WFMS (second to third) even though “95.5 The Country Station” follows March’s +1.1 with a gain of seven-tenths (6.2 – 7.3 – 8.0, 6+). Having finished on top in April 2018, May, and June, WFMS was +1.0 (April 2018); +.5 (May); -.5 (July); -.7 (August); +.9 (October); -1.8 (December); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); +1.1 (March); and is +.7 (April). Three successive bumps by Emmis-owned/similarly formatted WLHK netted a +2.2 (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.9 – 6.6, 6+), but “Country 97.1 Hank FM” returns one-tenth in April to 6.5 (6+) and continues in fifth-place. Prior to adding eight-tenths in January, “Hank” was an overall -1.3 in three straight decreases (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+). Radio One urban AC WTLC-FM “106.7 Indy’s R&B Leader” gains eight-tenths in four successive up or flat trends (4.6 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+) and advances from ninth to seventh. The last time Sarkes Tarzian triple A WTTS appeared in print was more than seven years ago (February 2012, 2.8, #16). “World Class Rock 92.3 – Experience The Music” resurfaces in April with a 3.1 (#4, 6+). As both Entercom hot AC WNTR “107.9 The Mix” and Radio One rhythmic CHR WHHH “Hot 96.3” drop one-half share, they display identical March to April profiles: 5.1 – 4.6 (6+), tenth to ninth. WNTR’s March 5.1 is its highest 6+-stat since January 2018’s 5.5; “Hot” is a cumulative -1.5 in four successive negative moves (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+). Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is off seven-tenths in three straight declines (4.1- 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4, flat at #12); while co-owned/similarly-formatted WQRA Air 1 – Worship Now” is without an increase for the sixth sweep in succession for a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .5 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .2, #22, 6+). In four consecutive down or flat reports, Cumulus Media CHR WYRG “Energy 93.9” is off six-tenths (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.2, #18 to #19, 6+).

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – No station in Nielsen Audio’s 48 PPM-markets makes a greater (6+) March 2019 – April 2019 escalation than Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ (5.9 – 8.8, +2.9) as the Brewers flagship leaps from fourth to second. Its March 5.9 marked the first time “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” slipped below a six-share (6+) since January 2018 (5.3). Some of its representative shifts include +1.9 (April 2018); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); -2.6 (December); and +2.9 (April 2019). Climbing from eighth to sixth, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130,” which sputtered by -1.7 in February/March (6.8 – 6.1 – 5.1, 6+), regains four-tenths to 5.5 (6+). “News/Talk 1130” boasted a January +2.2.

Three straight sweeps without a loss by WUWM led to a +1.2 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), but the University of Wisconsin news/talk outlet surrenders four-tenths to 4.4 (ninth to tenth, 6+). While flat at 1.1 (6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD advances from #18 to #17.

Milwaukee Music Formats – Milwaukee Radio Alliance-owned alternative WLUM “102.1 Sounds Different” is an overall +1.8 in three straight bumps (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+) and moves from #12 to #11. Whereas January’s 2.5 is its lowest-ever 6+ PPM stat, this (4.3) is its best since August 2017’s 4.3. Rebounding from a March loss of eight-tenths with an April improvement of nearly the same magnitude (9.4 – 10.1, +.7, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” is #1 for the fifth sweep in succession. Before shifting to #2 in October 2018, “Big FM” spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1; “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Its six most recent moves are -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); and +.7 (April). After scoring back-to-back gains of nine-tenths (4.5 – 5.4 – 6.3, 6+), Entercom CHR WXSS “103.7 Kiss FM” forfeits approximately 78% (-1.4) of that February/March bounty with a -1.4 to 4.9 (6+), drifting from third to eighth. With a 6.3 in March, “Kiss” reached the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2012 (6.1). Hot AC sibling WMYX “99.1 The Mix” has lost seven-tenths in four down or flat reports (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.4, sixth to seventh, 6+). Unchanged at #11, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WKKV is a collective -2.2 in three straight sweeps without an increase (6.5 – 5.4 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+). Immediately prior to the February sweep, “V-100.7 Jams” was an overall +2.0 via three successive gains (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.9 – 6.5, 6+).

Nashville

Spoken-Word Formats – Locked on 3.2 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 and January 2019, and then on 3.6 (6+) in February and March, Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” sputters by four-tenths and is back at 3.2 (#13 to #14, 6+). In three straight improvements, iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC netted seven-tenths (1.0 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+), but “Talk Radio 1510” forfeits three-tenths to 1.4 (#17 to #19, 6+).

Following a combined +2.1 in January/February (3.6 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+), Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” is -1.3 in March/April (5.7 – 4.8 – 4.4, flat at #10, 6+). With an April loss of seven-tenths, its internet stream all but disappears, as evidence by this January 2019 through April 2019 topline: 1.1 – 1.1 – .8 – .1 (#28, 6+).

Up seven-tenths in January onto to return a combined six-tenths in February/March, Entercom sports talk WVEI dials up a four-tenths gain in April (3.6 – 4.0, eighth to seventh, 6+).

After being tied at #12 in February and March, The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH (1.6 – 2.0, +.4, #12 to #10, 6+) and WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH (flat at 1.6, #12 to #13, 6+) get a bit untangled. By gaining one-tenth in January, WELH ended three straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall loss of eight-tenths (2.6 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+). In January, WGBH was stable at 1.6 (6+) following “Holiday” 2018’s decrease of seven-tenths.

Providence Music Formats – Shaking off a March loss of one-half share, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB “B-101” (fifth to fourth) roars back with a +1.6 to 7.6, its highest 6+-share since July 2018’s 8.1. In four straight positive spikes (5.6 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.4 – 7.8, 6+), Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” is +2.2 (fourth to third); this follows a collective -3.1 as a result of three declines in succession (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9 – 5.6, 6+). Debuting in February with a .3 (6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WNBH “Big 101.3” follows with a .4 (March, 6+) and .5 in April (#21, 6+). Immediately after “Holiday” 2018’s lofty 16.2 (6+), Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI posted a consistent January – February – March topline of 9.1 – 9.3 – 9.2 (6+). Not only does “Lite Rock 105” have a one-half share bump to 9.7 (6+), it advances from second, where it had been the past three sweeps, to first. Prior to shifting to the runner-up slot in January 2019, “Lite Rock 105” was #1 for six consecutive sweeps; “Holiday” 2018’s 16.2 is the highest 6+-stat for any Providence station since WWLI’s 18.0 in “Holiday” 2016. Displaced from the top spot after three straight months there and segueing to second-place is iHeartMedia’s WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll,” which falters by nine-tenths to 9.6 (6+). The loss interrupts four consecutive ratings periods without a loss that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. This Rhode Island market’s 6+ CHR share softens by -1.3, virtually equally divided between Townsquare Media’s WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” (-.7, #9 to #11, 6+) and Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music – 92 PRO FM” (7.2, third to fifth, 6+). “Fun 107” has now lost more than 50% (-2.3) of its 6+-share in three straight slips (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9, 6+). Immediately in advance of this negative stretch, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). WPRO-FM’s April -.6 pulls the plug on three straight gains that netted a +1.4 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+); 7.8 in March is its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 8.4.

Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being an overall -1.8 in three straight setbacks (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” manages to progress from second to first. This is WOKV’s lowest 6+-share since September 2018 (8.6, as well), while November 2018’s 11.2 is its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era.

Even though iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” is down or flat the sixth consecutive time for a net loss of one-half share (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3 – .3, 6+) it returns to the top twenty (#21 to a three-way tie at #19).

A cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), public news/talk WJCT “Your Community – Your World” is off two-tenths to 3.5 (6+) but advances from #12 to #11.

In August 2018, co-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” posted a .1 (6+) but has been a “no-show” in the subsequent nine sweeps.

Slipping from seventh to eighth, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN has lost eight-tenths in three successive decreases (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – When iHeartMedia-owned adult contemporary WOLL lost one-tenth in March, it snapped at three its consecutive string of positive spikes that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). “Today’s Kool 105.5” answers in April with a +.7 to 7.1, its best 6+-stat since July 2016’s 7.5, and advances from third to second. Conversely, following a March increase of seven-tenths, Hubbard Broadcasting-owned/similarly-programmed WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” spirals by -1.2 (8.2 – 7.1, 6+) and trades places with WOLL (second to third). “Sunny” was a combined -3.2 in January/February (10.7 – 7.8 – 7.5, 6+). Up six-tenths (5.3 – 5.9, 6+), urban AC cluster-mate WMBX “X-102.3” is steady in fourth-place and has its highest 6+-share (5.9) since May 2018’s 6.2. Immediately on the heels of erupting with a +2.0 in March, co-owned hot AC WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” craters by an even more humongous -2.2 (9.2 – 11.2 – 9.0, 6+) but is #1 for the fourth month in a row. Its March 11.2 is its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Having faltered by -1.0 in January, WRMF was frozen on 9.2 (6+) in January and February. A cumulative -1.9 via five consecutive down or flat reports (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.6 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5, 6+), WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” halts the slide by picking up two-tenths to 2.7 (6+) and remains in ninth-place. Off one-half share (1.5 – 1.0, 6+), MoodyBible Institute gospel WRMB “89.3 Moody Radio” fades from #15 to #20.

While it remains anchored at #13 for the 12thconsecutive time, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” erodes by seven-tenths (2.3 – 1.6, 6+). Off three-tenths to .5 (#16 to #17, 6+), University of North Carolinaat Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC halts at four its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted two-tenths (.6 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .8, 6+).

Greensboro Music Formats – Four consecutive sweeps without a loss by iHeartMedia CHR WMKS have generated a collective +1.8 (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 4.6, 6+) as “100.3 Kiss-FM” climbs from tenth to ninth and reaches the four-share level (4.6, 6+) for the first time in exactly one year (4.1, April 2018). Improving by seven-tenths (each) are Entercom rhythmic CHR WJMH “102 Jamz” (6.5 – 7.2, steady at #4, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ “105.7 – Man Up” (2.5 – 3.2, #12 to #11, 6+). Prior to faltering by one-half share in March, WJMH was an overall +.9 through three consecutive positive moves (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.0, 6+). Five straight declines by WQMG resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+), but “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” applies the brakes with a +.6 to 9.7 (6+). Moreover, the Entercom urban AC marches to #1 after a March-only stay in the runner-up slot. Up one-full share in November, WQMG spent 11 straight sweeps at #1 in 2018 before segueing to #2 in December. While setting the pace in January and February (2019), its consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) ended in January (2019) at 26. In March, WQMG was replaced at #1 by adult hits cluster-mate WSWM “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything,” but the roles are reversed in April, as WQMG pushes “Simon” from first to third. The four most recent fluctuations by WSMW are +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); and -1.6 in April (9.8 – 8.2, 6+). Prior to March, the last time WSMW reached #1 was August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Whereas March’s 9.8 its best 6+performance since July 2018’s 10.0, April’s 8.2 is its weakest in more than three years (8.1, March 2016). In the market’s country tussle, Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” regains the two-tenths it squandered in March (5.7 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” loses a cumulative seven-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” substituted January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). April results keep WPAW and WTQR at #6 and #8, respectively.

As part of an alternating up/down pattern that began in December 2018, Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” is +.3 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.9 (January 2019); -.9 (February); +.1 (March); and -.6 in April (5.3 – 4.7, flat at #9, 6+). After losing four-tenths in March, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” erases half that decline with an April gain of two-tenths (1.5 – 1.1 – 1.3, flat at #14, 6+).

Hartford Music Formats – By racking up a robust increase of nine-tenths after its March +.4 (7.2 – 7.6 – 8.5, unchanged in second-place, 6+), Entercom hot AC WTIC-FM “96.5 TIC-FM” brings to a halt the down/up pattern it began in August 2018: 7.2 – 7.0 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 6.3 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.6 (6+). This (8.5) is WTIC-FM’s highest 6+-share since July 2018 (8.6). Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale Connecticut’s Classic Rock” improves by seven-tenths in March/April (5.3 – 5.4 – 6.0, 6+). In addition to climbing from eighth to seventh, “The Whale” has its best 6+-stat since October 2017 (6.0, as well). Entercom adult contemporary WRCH has certainly experienced considerable shifting in each of the past seven reports. “Lite 100.5” was -.8 (November); +1.8 (December); +5.6 (“Holiday” 2018 to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017); -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February; -1.0 (March); and is -1.3 in April. Although #1 for the 34thconsecutive ratings period, WRCH drops to 9.8 (6+); it had been in double-digits (6+) in 30 of the last 32 sweeps. A combined +1.1 in February/March (5.0 – 5.5 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” surrenders eight-tenths to 5.3 (seventh to eighth, 6+); March’s 6.1 is its best 6+-stat since August 2018’s 6.5. Flat at #5, Entercom-owned rhythmic CHR WZMX “Hot 93.7” is -1.4 in March/April (7.9 – 6.6 – 6.5, 6+), following a January/February +1.1 (6.8 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+).

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Erica Farber Named TALKERS 2019 ‘Woman of the Year.’ The TALKERS editorial board has selected Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) president/CEO Erica Farber as the broadcasting industry trade journal’s 2019 recipient of its 20th annual Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Talk Radio by a Woman, also known as the “Woman of the Year” award. Farber joined the RAB as executive VP in January of 2012 and quickly ascended to its leadership in April of that year. Prior to that, Farber served more than a dozen years as publisher and CEO of the historic radio trade publication Radio & Records. Her extraordinary career in the radio business also includes a 12-year stint in various top management capacities at INTEREP, one of radio’s leading rep firms, including serving as its executive vice president/radio development director. Erica Farber was also a significant pioneer in the history of women breaking the glass ceiling in the management arena of the major market radio station business. During the early years of her career, she held positions at KRTH-FM, KABC-TV, and KIIS-AM in Los Angeles. In 1975, she was appointed general sales manager of WROR-FM, Boston and was promoted to general manager in June of that year. Her success then led to an appointment as VP/general manager of WXLO-FM, New York in 1976. In making the announcement of Farber’s selection, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “We have just scratched the surface of this great radio woman’s work history in today’s TALKERS story. Erica could have justifiably claimed this honor many times during her stellar career and she has been awarded literally dozens of industry awards and accolades since her days in local radio management and sales.” Harrison adds, “We look forward to day when a specific women’s award in radio becomes an obsolete concept. We are getting closer to that day but still have a way to go. But we are certainly a lot closer to it thanks to women such as Erica and the other outstanding female broadcasters who have received this award since it was established in 2000. It was originally conceived as a tribute to the career of the independently syndicated talk show host Judy Jarvis who was taken from us by cancer that year at the age of 54.” Past recipients of the award include: Caroline Beasley, Mary Berner, Ginny Morris, Julie Talbott, Robin Quivers, Robin Bertolucci, Heather Cohen, Grace Blazer, Laurie Cantillo, Stephanie Miller, Randi Rhodes, Laura Ingraham, Kim Komando, Ellen Ratner, Adriane Gaines, Lynn Distler, Lisa Evers, Gloria Allred and (posthumously) Judy Jarvis. The award will be presented to Erica Farber at Talkers 2019: Telling the Story in New York on Friday, June 7. The event is mere days away from a sellout. For registration and agenda information, please click here.

Salem Media Group First Quarter Revenue Drops 5.2%. First quarter total net revenue reported by Salem Media Group was $60.5 million, down 5.2% from Q1 of 2018. Breaking it down by segment, Salem’s broadcast revenue was $46.1 million, down 4.1% compared to the same period in 2018. Looking even closer, Salem operates 33 news/talk stations and the revenue from those stations was down 10.8% for the quarter. This quarter they contributed 18% of total broadcast revenue. Salem CEO Ed Atsinger said during Friday’s earnings call that “the biggest decline came from local revenue, which includes local spot, local program. and miscellaneous broadcast revenue. Local revenue is down 8.9%. On a same-station basis, the revenue is down 7.4% or $1.8 million. About 20% of that decline was due to the absence of political revenue.” Atsinger said they face two adversaries in the broadcast revenue sector. “First, we continue to lose local revenue to digital, principally Facebook and Google. Additionally, in several of our markets, where we play for ratings, we we’re seeing competitors pricing per share by packaging in other related stations into a buy for free. And basically, the other competitors have a larger cluster, they’ve got an advantage there.” Atsinger also noted that the company’s focus on digital agency initiative Salem Surround has affected performance. “To a certain extent, this has caused some distraction to sales staff, as we’re seeing some cannibalization of other local revenue streams and also a distraction in terms of time. But the results that we’ve been seeing from Salem Surround have been quite favorable. Our local digital revenue grew by almost $1 million or 53%. And Salem Surround showed a modest profit for the first time.” Revenue for Salem Radio Network was off 6.6% during the quarter and that was attributed primarily to the changeover from the Michael Medved show to the Dr. Sebastian Gorka program. Atsinger said SRN lost some affiliates initially, but the affiliate count is growing and the show is “progressing well ahead of schedule.”

Monday Memo: Twitter Tips. In the social media jungle, Facebook is still T-Rex. But people on Twitter seem to live there, Donald Trump included. With all the new-tech competition AM/FM broadcasters now have – and with so much of it robotic (i.e., Pandora) – social media can help differentiate and personalize us. And listeners are flattered when a celebrity (that’s you) interacts; and, most flattering of all, re-Tweets something they posted. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke outlines tips for exploiting this powerful platform. Read it here.

Free Talk Live Passes 200-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated talk program “Free Talk Live” announces it has surpassed the 200-affiliate mark. The program is co-hosted by Ian Freeman and Mark Edge. Freeman says, “It took 15 years, but we made it. This week we crossed the 200-affiliate milestone! Thanks to all the stations that are currently airing and also have aired Free Talk Live at some point in the past. You have made this possible and I appreciate it.” Freeman notes that, unlike some other syndicated talk shows, he works to keep his GCN-distributed program’s affiliate roster accurate and up-to-date, otherwise he could claim as many as 400 stations! He adds that he figures he’s lost about 200 affiliates over 15 years as well so he’s proud to say the show has 203 active AM and FM affiliates.

Joe ‘Pags’ Show to Air in Evenings on WPHT, Philadelphia. The WOAI, San Antonio-based, nationally syndicated “Joe Pags Show,” with host JoePagliarulo, is taking over the evening daypart on Entercom’s news/talk WPHT, Philadelphia. That slot opened up when Premiere Networks’ Sean Hannity show moved from evenings down into the live 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm daypart following Rich Zeoli’s promotion to morning drive. The “Joe Pags Show” is currently heard on more than 70 affiliate stations across the U.S.

TALKERS News Notes. Talk show host Tom Donahue reports that his program is returning inon-demand form for streaming stations and podcast platforms. The weekly program can be provided to radio stations and online streaming stations for weekend play. Donahue says, “I will be joined by a contributing host and producer Angeline Marie who has hosted the ‘Truth Seekers Radio Show’ and created her own online station ‘K-Star Talk Radio.’ This is the first time ever for me to have a regular on-air contributor. I have always flown solo…I felt taking this new approach for my talk show would infuse a dynamic and real radio feel.”…..Baseball legend Darryl Strawberry recently spent the morning on air with personalities of NRG Media’s KOZN, Omaha “1620 The Zone.” Strawberry appeared on the station’s morning show with Damon Benning and Gary Sharp. Strawberry was in town to speak at the “Fresh Hope Ministries” banquet and to meet fans and sign autographs at Friday night’s Omaha Storm Chasers game. Pictured below are (from l-r): Omaha Storm Chasers owner Gary Greene; Benning, Sharp, Strawberry, and KOZN morning show producer Shane Schillerberg.

GAB Radio Talent Institute Begins Today. The Georgia Association of Broadcasters and the National Radio Talent System are announcing the opening of today’s GAB Radio Talent Institute on the campus of University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. Today’s opening day is hosted by Mercedes Benz Stadium and the Atlanta Falcons. Cumulus Media EVP of content & programming Mike McVay and Cox Media Group VP of audience content Tim Clarke are speaking at today’s opening session. Over the next 10 days more than 40 broadcasters from companies such as Cumulus, Cox Media, Beasley Media Group, Entercom, Urban One, iHeartMedia, and others will lead sessions. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber will lead the closing session titled, “Now is the Time to Start Thinking Like a Pro.” GAB president Bob Houghton says, “The Georgia Association of Broadcasters is proud of our partnership with the National Radio Talent System. Over the past five years we have graduated over 100 students who are ready to make a contribution to the future of our industry. I appreciate the nearly 40 broadcasters each year who give their time and talent to speak in the Institute. Broadcasting, and specifically radio, has a proud past and, with this program, a bright future.”

2020 Presidential Politics, U.S.-China Trade War, U.S.-Iran Tensions, Tlaib Holocaust Commentary Blowback, Mueller Testimony, and NBA/NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China; the U.S. military presence in the Persian Gulf and Iran’s threats; the reaction by Republicans over U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib’s comments about the Holocaust; House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff’s assurance Robert Mueller will testify before congress; and NBA and NHL playoff action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Connecticut classic rocker WFOX, Southport (Stamford-Norwalk market) tweaks its format, moving away from 60s and 70s rock and re-focusing on rock from the 80s, 90s, and 00s. It has also re-branded as “Fairfield County Rocks.” Station program director Kevin Begley states, “The Stamford-Norwalk market, even with the bleed in of New York City radio, is completely underserved with the next generation of classic rock. The new version of ‘95.9 the FOX’ will supply that demand for those huge rock hits of the last 30 years.”…..Last week’s exit of talent from hot AC WSTR, Atlanta “STAR 94.1” – morning personality Jeff Dauler and afternoon jock Mike Marino – also included the departure of midday host Heather Branch. However, Branch was not let go and had given notice to Entercom in February that she would exit on May 10, the 10th anniversary of her joining WSTR…..iHeartMedia appoints Jared Fallon program director for CHR KBKS, Seattle “106.1 KISS FM.” iHM Seattle SVP of programming Rich Moore says, “We are very excited to add Jared to our programming team here in Seattle. His passion combined with his enthusiasm and creativity make him a great fit to lead our amazing KISS team and will take the station to new levels.” Fallon moves west from his role with the company at CHR WIOQ, Philadelphia “Q102.”…..In New York City, Bob Bronson announces via social media that he’s left iHeartMedia’s adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 LITE FM” after 10 years as morning drive host. Bronson hosted the “Bob and Christine” show with Christine Nagy. No word yet on iHeartMedia’s plans for the morning daypart…..Alpha Media’s CHR KFRX, Lincoln, Nebraska posts the message that it has severed its employment relationship with Matthew Rydberg, a.k.a. Matt McKay. This comes after Rydberg’s arrest for domestic assault on April 20.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — In the social media jungle, Facebook is still T-Rex. But people on Twitter seem to live there, Donald Trump included.

With all the new-tech competition AM/FM broadcasters now have – and with so much of it robotic (i.e., Pandora) – social media can help differentiate and personalize us. And listeners are flattered when a celebrity (that’s you) interacts; and, most flattering of all, re-Tweets something they posted.

Tip: Instead of asking listeners to Follow YOU on Twitter, tell ‘em you’ll Follow THEM. I’ve grown my own following by making that offer on my TV show: “If you follow me, I’ll follow you.”

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Cumulus Media Names Brian Philips EVP of Content and Audience; Mike McVay to Return to Consulting. Effective today, radio and television executive Brian Philips is being appointed executive vice president, content and audience for Cumulus Media, taking over for Michael McVay, who is returning to full-time consulting, with Cumulus as his first client. Philips previously served as president of Viacom/MTV Network’s CMT channel. The press release notes that there, Philips led “the music network’s successful forays into long-form script series, tentpole awards shows, concert specials, and feature films. He also developed CMT’s successful national radio network.” Prior to working in TV and film, Philips worked in radio programming with such stations as Cumulus’ WNNX-FM and WWWQ-FM in Atlanta, and KPLX-FM, Dallas. Cumulus Media CEO Mary Berner says, “We are excited that Brian is joining our leadership team. A highly accomplished executive, leader, and innovator with substantial experience across today’s media landscape, he comes to us with an impressive and successful track record of growing ratings and expanding audiences. We look forward to benefiting from the skills and expertise he brings to his new role. I would also like to thank Mike for his significant contributions to Cumulus and for being such a great partner to me.” McVay underscores that the decision to leave Cumulus and return to consulting was entirely his. In praising McVay, Berner adds, “Mike’s accomplishments since his appointment as EVP, content and programming in 2015 are too numerous to count. To name just a few, under Mike’s leadership of the office of programming, we reversed four years of ratings share declines, and saw years of ratings share growth. We are currently posting the best ratings since 2011 on some of our biggest and most important stations. Mike has helped to expand Westwood One’s programming, participating in the launch of several new shows, including the very successful ‘The Ben Shapiro Show.’ Mike has also led us in increasing our reach beyond over the air listening to include smart speakers and all online listening.”

Monday Memo: Show Me Your Show. On smart talk stations, weekends are appointment listening and might be the two most profitable days of the week, “NOT incompatible goals” according to consultant Holland Cooke. “Yet,” he notes, “programming Saturdays and Sundays can be high-maintenance for stations, and getting airtime is challenging for talent.” In this week’s Monday Memo, HC recommends a win-win road map to weekend airtime. Read it here.

Simonson Named Director of Sales at Hubbard Radio West Palm Beach. Radio sales pro Gregory Simonson is appointed director of sales for Hubbard Radio’s recently acquired West Palm Beach station group that includes news/talk WFTL, Fort Lauderdale and sports talk WMEN, Royal Palm Beach “640 The Hurricane,” and four music-formatted stations. Simonson was most recently general sales manager with Beasley Media Group’s Fayetteville, North Carolina cluster. Hubbard Radio SVP and market manager Elizabeth Hamma states, “I’m very happy to welcome Gregory to the Hubbard Radio West Palm Beach family. His extensive track record of success in traditional and digital media as well as his passion for helping sales people succeed make Gregory a perfect choice to lead our sales team to new heights.” Last fall, Hubbard agreed to acquire the cluster from Alpha Media for $88 million.

‘Our American Stories’ Passes 180-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated “Our American Stories” program from American Private Radio announces the addition of eight new affiliate stations to the program’s roster, putting over the 180-station mark. APR president and show host Lee Habeeb says, “Stations told us they wanted a radio program that wasn’t always about politics, to give listeners a break from the news cycle. More importantly, they love the topics we share every night, and we take great pride in putting stories together that touch our listeners’ hearts and minds. People walk away feeling better when they listen to ‘Our American Stories.’” New stations include Entercom’s news/talk WCCO-AM, Minneapolis-St. Paul.

TALKERS News Notes. A new podcast is being launched starring iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman, titled, “Math & Magic: Stories From the Frontiers of Marketing,” on the iHeartPodcast Network beginning on May 14. The program will feature interviews with “visionary executives from the media and entertainment industries.” In the first two episodes. Pittman talks with Maurice Levy, who, during his tenure as CEO of Publicis Groupe, increased the value of the company by 100 times and expanded a French agency into a true global advertising and communications leader; and Scooter Braun, renowned talent entrepreneur, investor and entertainment executive who boosted the careers of international superstars such as Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, and many others…..Boston Herald-based nationally syndicated columnist and Boston Herald Radio show host Adriana Cohen recently hosted President Trump on her weekly program. Cohen tells TALKERS that the almost-20-minute interview went viral after being picked up by Politico, Boston Globe, Newsweek, Fox News, The Blaze, The Hill, and others…..Chicago media writer Robert Federreports that staffers at Entercom’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM are getting some backing from fellow union members as they negotiate with the company for raises for the newsroom’s eight assistant producers. The Writers Guild of America will rally outside the WBBM studios in the Prudential Building today (5/6)…..Washington University in St. Louis is awarding seven people with honorary degrees at a ceremony during the school’s 2019 commencement on May 17 and one of those is SiriusXM Urban View talk host Joe Madison. The commencement address will be delivered by Michael Bloomberg. Madison graduated from Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in 1971…..WTMJ, Milwaukee cleaned up at the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Awards Gala in Madison over the weekend. The Good Karma Brands news/talk station won first place in 21 categories, including: News/Talk Large Market Station of the Year, Radio News Operation of the Year (Large Market); Social and Digital Operation of the Year (Large market); Best Newscast: Wisconsin’s Afternoon News; and more. Pictured below with the station’s awards are WTMJ staffers (from l-r): Nick Van Wagenen, Erik Bilstad, Jordan Gasiorowski, Steve Wexler, Steve Scaffidi, Jane Matenaer, Jay Sorgi, Brad Lane, Doug Russell, Melissa Barclay, and Mike Spaulding.

Mueller Report/Trump on Mueller Testimony, 2020 Presidential Politics, China Trade War Escalation, U.S.-Iran Tensions, North Korea Missile Test, Israel-Gaza Violence, ‘Game of Thrones,’ Avengers: Endgame, Kentucky Derby Disqualification, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of the release of the Mueller Report and President Trump’s tweets saying Robert Mueller should not testify before congress; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; markets react as Trump threatens to ramp up U.S.-China trade war; U.S. carrier group heads to Iran in response to reports of Iranian threats to U.S. interests in the region; reaction to North Korea’s latest missile test; the rocket attacks on Israel from Gaza; Sunday’s episode of “Game of Thrones”; the Avengers: Endgame movie sets new record; the Kentucky Derby winner is disqualified; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

George Beasley Inducted into PA Radio Hall of Fame. Pictured above is Beasley Broadcast Group founder and chairman George Beasley at center with his wife Ann and surrounded by their family at the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters’ 2019 Gold Medal Awards Dinner yesterday (5/5) in Hershey where he was inducted into the PAB’s Hall of Fame. Beasley was inducted with fellow honorees: comic and actor/director Bob Saget, Pittsburgh Steelers great and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, and C-SPAN correspondent Steve Scully.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Los Angeles alternative rocker KROQ announces the debut of the afternoon drive “Stryker and Klein” program featuring Ted Stryker (left) and Kevin Klein (right). Entercom Los Angeles SVP and market manager Jeff Federman says, “Pairing Stryker and Klein is something we could never have imagined just a few years ago. Individually, they’ve both had tremendous success throughout their careers. Adding great content to our afternoon programming is something that we’re very committed to and these guys do a fantastic job connecting the music to fun and interesting conversations.” Stryker has been with the station since 1999. Klein hosted mornings on the company’s KITS-FM, San Francisco “Live 105.” He was slated to be the morning host at sports talk KWFN, San Diego but the infamous Coronado Bridge social media post bit derailed his gig on that station…..The search is on for the new morning show at Entercom’s country WUSN, Chicago “US99” after Doug Stylz and Justin Roman exited the station on Friday (5/3). The duo previously hosted the morning show at sister CHR WBBM-FM, “B96” before taking on the morning show role at “US99.”…..Premiere Networks-syndicated evening personality Delilah recently hosted the “Our Town, Our Heroes Celebration,” a local event recognizing listeners for their outstanding work in the Wilmington, Delaware area, produced by Beasley-owned affiliate WJBR, Wilmington “Mix 99.5.” In addition to helping honor local citizen’s Delilah was surprised by WJBR as the station honored her for her philanthropic efforts with her non-profit foundation, Point Hope, that serves as a voice for forgotten children in the U.S. foster care system and in West Africa.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Talk radio PDs are haunted by enthused wanna-be’s with “a GREAT idea for a weekend show.”

But they’re unproven on-air performers. Sadly, pay-for-play is now business-as-usual, and coaching is minimal at best.

Turnover hurts.

Many who do get a crack at on-air work don’t pan-out long-term. They meant well, and swore up-and-down that they’d show up, weekend after weekend. But after 60-90 days of show prep and being cooped-up in a radio station while all their friends are having a good time every weekend, they run out of gas.

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Beasley Broadcast Group Q1 Net Revenue Up 4.6%. The 2019 first quarter financial report from Beasley Broadcast Group includes the acquisition of WXTU, Philadelphia and reveals net revenue of $57.7 million – an increase of 4.6% over the $55.2 million figure from the first quarter of 2018. The company says the increase “reflects growth in the company’s Philadelphia cluster primarily related to the September 2018 acquisition of WXTU-FM, growth in the company’s Tampa cluster primarily related to the 2018 acquisition of an event company, and revenue growth in three of the company’s other radio markets, partially offset by declines in the remaining markets where the company operates.” Station operating income rose $0.6 million or 6.2% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2019 to $10.2 million. The year-over-year increase reflects the net revenue growth during the period which more than offset a 4.3% year-over-year rise in station operating expenses related to the company’s expanded platform. Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley says, “The ongoing execution of our strategies to expand our scale, diversify our revenue mix and leverage the value of our premium local brands and content continued to serve Beasley well in the first quarter of 2019. The strength of our station clusters in three of our top five largest revenue markets as well as contributions from recent acquisitions and station swaps resulted in a 4.6% revenue increase and more than offset the $0.8 million year-over-year decline in revenue from our prior relationship with United States Traffic Network, which was discontinued in the third quarter of 2018. As a result, Beasley’s first quarter net income rose to $1.4 million, we generated a 6.2% year-over-year increase in SOI and generated an overall margin improvement.”

TALKERS CONVENTION SPOTLIGHT: Sports Talk Radio to be Spotlighted at Forthcoming Talkers Convention. An examination of sports talk radio will be one of the many highlights planned for the forthcoming Talkers 2019: Telling the Story on Friday, June 7 in New York City. There will be two significantly pertinent sessions addressing spoken-word radio from the sports talk perspective. The first will be a one-on-one discussion between two leading influencers in the genre. Mark Chernoff, SVP programming WFAN/Entercom New York and captain/sports format, CBS Sports Radio will be in direct conversation with Mike Thomas, program director, WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub” and brand manager for spoken word, podcasts, esports, Beasley Broadcasting. The introducer/facilitator of this conversation will be nationally syndicated talk generalist Kate Delaney, host of “The Kate Delaney Show” (Genesis Communications Network) and weekend contributor to NBC Sports Radio. The other major sports talk session featured at Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will be a special keynote address delivered by nationally syndicated CBS Sports Radio superstar Jim Rome, titled, “Engaging the Already Informed.” Rome will address the challenges presented in the modern era of heightened, amplified, and sped up communications – not just in sports talk but in all forms of talk radio – in which the audience already has the basic information about what’s happening news-wise within the genre before the conversation even begins. Don’t miss these sessions! The conference is rapidly moving toward being an early sellout. To see the entire up-to-the-minute agenda and registration/hotel information, please click here.

PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk radio. Just 28% of news/talk stations saw their weekly 6+ AQH share increase from February to March, while 51% went down. Comparing year-over-year ratings, half the stations on our panel were up and half were down, with some notable movement from some of the country’s prominent news/talk outlets. iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati rose 2.6 shares from March 2018 to March 2019 while Bonneville’s KSL, Salt Lake City and iHM’s WISN, Milwaukee both dropped 2.4 shares year-over-year. Just two news/talk outlets ranked #1 (6+) in their respective markets in March – Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta and Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5.” See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.

Monday Memo: Promotion, Now More Than Ever. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in this week’s Monday Memo that too many radio stations don’t spend enough capital promoting themselves. “One of radio’s enduring and painful ironies is that we sell advertising, but many stations DO none…which advertisers notice. And, conversely, they view stations that do promote as ‘big,’ and they feel that stations’ off-air promotion supports the schedules we’ve sold them.” Need reasons why you should be promoting your station? Read Cooke’s column here.

AM Signals Profiled in Politico Piece. Different people have different opinions about the efficacy of AM radio in the 21st century, but a piece published recently in Politico presents a view of six AM broadcasters who connect with their audience in unique ways that belie their humble AM platforms. The gist of the story is that there are audiences being served in very important ways via a broadcast technology that many – including a fair number in the radio industry – believe is past its prime. But the cases illustrated in the piece indicate that for some, the value of the radio station is immeasurable. Read it here.

Salem Media Group Profiled by The Hollywood Reporter. The piece is written by Jeremy Barr and is titled, “How Salem Is Quietly Becoming a Conservative Media Giant.” The story quotes several Salem Media Group execs – including SVP Phil Boyce – as it lays out the company’s philosophy of presenting consistently conservative radio programming and digital conservative news and opinion sites that target politically aware and conservative Americans. The company also offers Christian talk and music programming. SVP of spoken word programming Phil Boyce says the Salem Radio Network’s lineup was created purposefully. “Every weekday, from 6:00 am ET to midnight, Salem broadcasts talk radio programming that fits together like a jigsaw puzzle. There is a linkage between all of the shows and while not all stations take our entire lineup, all of them could and you would not get tired of it.” Read the whole piece here.

Lynn Woolley Show Returns to the Air in Central Texas. Longtime, Texas-based radio talk show host Lynn Woolley is going back on the air in Central Texas. Via a deal with M&M Broadcasters, the Lynn Woolley show will be heard on sports talk outlets KLRK-AM/K257GO, Waco and KTON-AM/K230CH, Killeen-Temple-Belton, beginning on May 6. Woolley has broadcast from studios in Temple for the past 23 years but the show will re-locate to Waco and will air live from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. He says, “I could not be happier to work with some of the biggest names in Central Texas radio. David Smoak is a nationally known sportscaster and the voice of the Baylor Bears. John Morris also broadcasts with M&M. I’m a Longhorn by nature, but I can guarantee that at least 10 times each season, I’ll be pulling for the Bears!”

Galaxy Media Appoints Dana Loucks CFO. Taking over as the chief financial officer for Galaxy Media is Dana Loucks. Galaxy president and CEO Ed Levine says Loucks will assume the CFO duties on May 14. “We got to know Dana some years back as he was our banker for a period of time. His tremendous knowledge of finance combined with a wonderful personality made him my first and only choice to succeed our great CFO Mike Lucarelli who is retiring.” Loucks says, “I am truly looking forward to working with Ed and the rest of the progressive team at Galaxy Media. Their longstanding commitment to quality in all areas of the business is a testament to the team’s dedication and work ethic. I am excited for the opportunity to join them and contribute to Galaxy’s continued success.”

TALKERS News Notes. The New York State Broadcasters Association announces the winners of its Excellence in Broadcasting awards for 2019. In the large market category, WABC, New York’s “Bernie & Sid in the Morning” takes home the Outstanding Morning Show award. In the medium market category, WHAM, Rochester was honored with the Outstanding Newscast award…..Sun Broadcast Group announces that it is handling syndication of “Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis.” The program has been syndicated by Premiere Networks and it’s unclear from the SBG press release if Premiere is out of the picture and SBG is handling ad sales as well as affiliate sales. Lewis is quoted saying, “We are so thrilled to partner with Sun Broadcast Group. This is such a great opportunity for our format to reach new audiences. We have something for everybody no matter what you believe in. We can’t wait to see what Jason Bailey and his team can do with our show and bring it to the next level. The support and dedication we have received from SBG so far has been incredible.”…..Texas Radio Hall of Famer Roger Emrich died on Saturday (4/27) after suffering a heart attack last week. The 62-year-old broadcasters was a regular personality on KRLD-AM and the Texas State Network. Emrich was also the stadium announcer for AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys.

Mueller Report Release Aftermath, 2020 Presidential Politics, Trump’s Wisconsin Rally, California Synagogue Attack, Southern Border Crisis, Game of Thrones, Avengers: Endgame Movie, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The response to the release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and the politics surrounding the election; President Trump’s rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin on Saturday; the deadly attack at a California synagogue; the state of the migrant influx at the U.S.-Mexico border; Sunday night’s episode of “Game of Thrones”; the new Marvel Comics film Avengers: Endgame; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Seattle, Jon Manley exits Entercom’s alternative KNDD “107.7 The End” where he’d been serving as APD, music director, and afternoon personality for the past five years…..Producer JP Allen joins Entercom’s country KMLE, Phoenix as producer for the “Maria & Chad” morning drive show. Allen has been with the company’s WSTR, Atlanta “Star 94.1” producing the “Jeff and Jenn” show…..Entercom alternative outlet KROQ, Los Angeles reveals the lineup for this year’s 27th annual “KROQ Weenie Roast.” As the event moves to Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, California on Saturday, June 8, it will feature: The Lumineers, 311, Silversun Pickups, The Revivalists, Catfish and the Bottlemen, X Ambassadors, Flora Cash, Smith & Thell, and The Regrettes. Entercom Los Angeles SVP Jeff Federman says, “We’ve always believed ‘Weenie Roast’ belonged on the beach and we are thrilled that after 27 years we are finally able to dig our feet in the sand. We look forward to entertaining our listeners with this amazing lineup featuring some of their favorite artists that they hear on KROQ.”

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI — On a sales call while visiting a client station, the prospect asked how many listeners we’ve lost “now that everyone has SiriusXM.” Although we could easily demonstrate satellite radio’s actual penetration, and that our cume is actually up lately, perception is reality, eh?

One of radio’s enduring and painful ironies is that we sell advertising, but many stations DO none…which advertisers notice. And, conversely, they view stations that do promote as “big;” and they feel that stations’ off-air promotion supports the schedules we’ve sold them.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI –Nothing we say on-air can add listeners. Because the only people who hear promos are already listening.

On-air promotion should accomplish two things:

Add Time Spent Listening by explaining why and how to use the station again another time. Mathematically, that’ll move-the-needle even quicker than a bunch of expensive TV spots or billboards, which do invite sampling, but are inviting everyone. But your listeners already know you and use you. So with promos, you’re “buying a spot schedule on your own air,” the most-efficient medium for reaching your own listeners.

Enhance recall. I’m not against ear candy, when promos convey the essence of stations and shows. But be careful that cute, self-amused imaging doesn’t obscure the message.

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Monday Memo: Promos 101. With the important Spring ratings survey underway, station imaging needs to be on-message. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke outlines strategy and tactics. Your station promos should add Time Spent Listening and enhance recall. Learn more about how to accomplish that here.

Kristin Roderick Upped to VP at Townsquare Media. Sales pro Kristin Roderick is promoted from her director of regional partnerships position with Townsquare Media to vice president of partnership sales for New Jersey. She states, “No media company has a stronger platform in New Jersey than Townsquare to help our clients achieve their marketing objectives. I’m looking forward to leveraging Townsquare’s dynamic and diversified marketing platform to help some of the biggest and best agencies and businesses in the area accomplish their goals and increase their business.” Roderick joined Townsquare in November of 2017. She has held general sales manager and director of agency sales positions at iHeartMedia New York and a senior account executive position at Emmis Communications New York.

KMOX, St. Louis Personality Harry Hamm Charged with Child Pornography Possession and Sodomy. St. Louis television station KMOV-TV is reporting that KMOX-AM, St. Louis entertainment reporter and host Harry Hamm has been charged with possession of child pornography, incest and second-degree statutory sodomy after an underage relative reported alleged sexual abuse to police. St. Ann, Missouri police say that Hamm confessed to the allegations during an interview. Entercom issued the following statement regarding Hamm. “We have just learned of the troubling allegations against Harry Hamm. We take these matters very seriously and have placed him on immediate leave as we investigate. We do not have any further comment at this moment.”

Mueller Report Released, Southern Border Crisis, Sri Lanka Church Bombings, 2020 Presidential Politics, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of the release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the politics surrounding the migrant crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border; the deadly Easter Sunday bombings at Christian churches in Sri Lanka; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

TALKERS News Notes. The New York Postreports WFAN sports talk personality Mike Francesa tweeted over the weekend that he’s making his final comment about the dispute between his station and crosstown rival WEPN “ESPN New York” over the afternoon drive ratings. As you may recall, ESPN is touting PM driver Michael Kay’s ratings for the Winter survey (Jan., Feb., March), saying he beat Francesa in Men 25-54. However, when adding WFAN’s streaming numbers, Francesa beats Kay. The issue here is whether WFAN’s stream – which airs different ads than the over-the-air signal – should count. Francesa obviously believes it should. He tweeted: “This is the last time I will ever make a statement about the calculation of the radio ratings. There is only one possible way to read them. Anyone, and that means anyone, who says differently is either a fool or a liar. Case closed.”…..WABC, New York morning personality Sid Rosenberg celebrated his 52nd birthday on air last week and was greeted with Happy Birthday wishes from a number of his high-profile friends, including: TV host and prosecutor Bob Bianchi, Chris Matthews, Goumba Johnny, Lawrence Taylor, Michael Kay, and Jim Kerr. During the segment with Taylor, the two discussed rehab, aging, and enjoying the little things in life.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Montgomery CHR outlet WHHY-FM “Y102” names Gordie Daniels co-host of the morning show with incumbent morning personality Tommy Fields. Daniels previously worked on air at WJHM, Orlando and WLLD, Tampa. WHHY program director Jay Rio says, “It will be exciting to hear a new fresh and real sound from Gordie Daniels for the ‘Y102’ morning show. His experience, work ethic, and extensive background in mornings, working with ‘Orlando & The Freak Show’ in Tampa and ‘The Wake Up Posse’ morning show in Orlando as co-host and morning show producer makes Gordie the best talent to begin our day for ‘Y102.’”…..iHeartMedia’s Philadelphia alternative rocker WRFF “Radio 104.5” announces its annual series of Summer Block Parties. The kick-off event takes place on June 23 at Xfinity Live! featuring live performances by Catfish and the Bottlemen, Flora Cash, Oliver Tree, and Matt Maeson. Station PD and air personality John Allers says, “We’re very excited to offer our listeners another summer of free concerts with their favorite bands. We’re also thrilled to continue our partnership with Xfinity Live! as we move this year’s series of events to a new location.”…..Sun Broadcast Group announces Natalia Ospina joins the company as an ad sales assistant. Ospina was previously with Entravision Media Group serving as national TV sales account coordinator. Ospina will be based out of New York City supporting the SBG lineup that includes “The Fitz Show,” “Country Fried Mix with DJ Sinister,” Michael Baisden, Jim Brickman, Alfonso Ribeiro, Ana-Maria Canseco and many others.

March 2019 PPM Data – Part Four. March 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets below.

Four straight decreases by Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.4 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), but “The Horn” ends the slide with a one-tenth March gain to 1.7 (#20 to #17, 6+). In a somewhat similar situation, iHeartMedia’s KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” was down three-tenths via four consecutive down or flat trends (.7 – .7 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+) but picks up two-tenths to .6 (flat at #24, 6+).

The three most recent shifts by University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT are +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); and +.7 in March (8.8 – 9.5, #1 for the third time in a row, 6+). Prior to January’s increase, KUT forfeited an overall eight-tenths in three straight declines (8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+).

Austin Music Formats – On the strength of a +1.2 (5.5 – 6.7, 6+), Emmis regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” advances from fourth to third. It’s the first time KLZT reaches the six-share level (6.7, 6+) since October 2016 (6.1). It is a different story though for Crista Media contemporary Christian KFMK. Immediately after dialing up a +1.2 (3.4 – 4.6, 6+), “Spirit 105.9” forfeits the entire increase (4.6 – 3.4, -1.2, 6+) and drops out of the top ten (#8 to #12). February’s 4.6 marked the first time KFMK reached the four-share level (6+) since May 2017 (4.0). In early-March, Emmis flipped KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” to adult contemporary “Star 93.3.” In its first sweep in the new format, “Star” is off nine-tenths (2.0 – 1.1, #17 to #20, 6+). The station it now chases – Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ – loses one-half share (5.5 – 5.0, 6+), dropping from fourth to seventh. The eight most recent shifts for “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday” are -1.2 (September 2018); +1.2 (October); -.5 (November); +1.2 (December); +2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); -4.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); and -.5 (March). “Holiday” 2018’s 9.5 represents its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (12.4). In three straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia CHR KHFI “96.7 Kiss FM Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” is an overall +1.8 (3.6 – 4.3 – 5.4 – 5.4, sixth to fifth, 6+). “Kiss” was off a combined nine-tenths in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.5 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+). After posting a January +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+), co-owned KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin, Texas Original” is -1.1 in February/March (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.1, third to sixth, 6+). When KVET-FM gained one-half share in “Holiday” 2018, it ended three straight decreases that accounted for a collective loss of eight-tenths (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+). Eliminating February’s gain of four-tenths with a decrease nearly twice that size (2.7 – 2.0, -.7, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” slides from #13 to #16. A January drop of one-tenth interrupted three straight increases that nearly doubled (+1.1) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+). The market’s country outlet in positive territory this sweep is KVET-FM sibling KASE, which adds two-tenths after February’s -.6 (4.3 – 4.5, 6+) and jumps from tenth to eighth. “Austin’s #1 For New Country” spiraled by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018 and improved by +1.2 in January.

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight sweeps without a loss (4.6 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+),iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” is an overall +1.9 and repeats in fifth-place. Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” regains the three-tenths it lost in February (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+) and progresses from #19 to #18.

Despite dropping two-tenths (7.5 – 7.3, 6+), WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” inches up from fourth to third. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk outlet has moved from third to first (June 2018, +9); first to third (July, -1.1); third to first (August, +1.2); first to second (September, -.4); second to third (November, -.9); fourth to second (January 2019, +1.0); second to fourth (February, -.6); and now fourth to third.

Raleigh Music Formats – Without a loss the third time in a row for a net gain of eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.7, #12 to #11, 6+) Curtis Media Group CHR WPLW “Pulse FM All The Hits” has its best 6+-showing (3.7) since June 2018’s 3.8. At the same time, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WDCG “G-105 Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which had been +1.5 in January/February (4.5 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+), surrenders six-tenths to 5.4 (6+) yet advances from eighth to a seventh-place tie. Notwithstanding that it is trending 11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 (6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 for the eighth straight time. Entering the March sweep, its five previous fluctuations were +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); and -1.1 in February. January’s 11.0 is WFXC’s highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Ups/downs continue for Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL “Mix 101.5,” which was -2.6 (January); +1.6 (February); and is -.9 in March (8.6 – 7.7, 6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. In three consecutive up or flat trends (5.3 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 9.6, 6+), “Mix” was a cumulative +4.3; “Holiday” 2018’s 9.6 is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 10.4. A February gain of six-tenths by iHeartMedia’s WRDU “Classic Rock 100.7” is cleared away by a March dip of eight-tenths (6.2 – 5.4, sixth to seventh, 6+). February’s 6.2 is its best 6+-showing since August 2018 (6.2, as well). Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WRTP “HIS Radio” is off six-tenths (2.5 – 1.9, #13 to #16, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (1.9) since September 2018’s 1.7. Locked on 7.6 (6+) in December and “Holiday” 2018 and then on 7.8 (6+) in January and February, Radio One urban contemporary WQOK “K-97.5” regresses by one-half share to 7.3 (6+) but remains in third-place. Having more than doubled (+.7) its 6+-stat in five straight up or flat trends (.5 – .5 – .6 – .7 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WPTK “Just Right Radio” forfeits one-tenth to 1.1 (6+) and stays at #20. Co-owned regional Mexican WYMY is a collective -1.4 in three straight declines (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8, #16 to #17, 6+). Immediately prior to this streak, “La Ley 101.1” more than doubled (+1.7) its 6+-stat in six straight July through “Holiday” 2018 sweeps without a loss (1.5 – 1.5 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+).

The market’s 6+ country share inflates by +1.8, with Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” jumping from sixth to second, and Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” improving from seventh to fifth. Regarding WFMS, “The Country Station” obliterates February’s -1.0 with a +1.1 (7.2 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), while “Hank” replicates February’s +.7 and is a collective +2.2 as a result of three straight upticks (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.9 – 6.6, 6+). Having finished on top in April 2018, May, and June, WFMS was +1.0 (April 2018); +.5 (May); -.5 (July); -.7 (August); +.9 (October); -1.8 (December); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); and +1.1 (March). An overall -1.3 in three straight decreases (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+) before adding eight-tenths in January, “Hank” was -1.5 in September and then +.6 in October. Not only does Entercom hot AC WNTR crack the top ten (#11 to #10), “107.9 The Mix” (4.1 – 5.1, +1.0, 6+) has its highest 6+-stat (5.1) since January 2018’s 5.5. The three most recent shifts for Cumulus Media’s WJJK are January’s +2.9 (virtually eliminating December/“Holiday” 2018’s -3.0); -.7 (February); and -.6 in March (9.1 – 8.5, 6+). Nonetheless, “Classic Hits 104.5” is #1 for the third month in a row. After spending six straight sweeps on top, WJJK slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January. “Classic Hits 104.5” reached 10.0 (October 2018), the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Faltering by six-tenths in addition to WJJK are iHeartMedia’s WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” (6.8, second to fourth, 6+) and Entercom CHR WZPL “99.5 ZPL” (6.3 – 5.7, fifth to seventh, 6+). The December 2018 – February 2019 topline for “Q-95” was 7.7 – 7.3 – 7.7 – 7.4 (6+). After stumbling by seven-tenths in “Holiday” 2018, WZPL was +1.7 in January/February; it reached the six-share level (6.3, February 2019, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 6.6.

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – With a December 2018 through February 2019 topline of 6.8 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.2 (6+), Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ drops three-tenths to 5.9 (fifth to fourth, 6+), marking the first time “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” has been below a six-share (6+) since January 2018 (5.3). By picking up one-tenth in January, the flagship of the Bucks and Brewers halted three straight downtrends that produced a -4.2 (10.4 – 9.4 – 6.8 – 6.2, 6+). Some of its representative shifts include -.8 (January 2018); +.9 (February); +1.9 (April); -.6 (May); +.5 (June); -.5 (August); +.6 (September); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); -2.6 (December); and -.6 (“Holiday” 2018). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” spirals by -1.7 in February/March (6.8 – 6.1 – 5.1, sixth to eighth, 6+). A combined -2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.9 – 6.3 – 4.6, 6+), following its October and November +1.3, “News/Talk 1130” boasted a January +2.2 to 6.8 (6+).

A collective +1.2 in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM bumps up from tenth to ninth. Down two-tenths (1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD drops from #15 to #18.

Milwaukee Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations for Milwaukee Radio Alliance-owned alternative WLUM “102.1 Sounds Different” are -.6 (January); +.5 (February); and +1.1 in March (3.0 – 4.1, #13 to #12, 6+). Whereas January’s 2.5 is its lowest-ever 6+ PPM stat, this (4.1) is its best since July 2019 (4.1, as well). Posting a nine-tenths’ gain in back-to-back sweeps is Entercom CHR WXSS “103.7 Kiss FM” (4.5 – 5.4 – 6.3, 6+), which rockets from eighth to third and reaches the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2012 (6.1). While it is #1 for the fourth sweep in succession, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” erodes by eight-tenths (10.2 – 9.4, 6+). Before shifting to #2 in October 2018, “Big FM” spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1; “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Its five latest fluctuations are -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); and -.8 (March). Even though it has been without a direct country competitor since November (2018) when WKTI flipped to sports talk, iHeartMedia-owned WMIL was -1.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (7.5 – 7.3 – 6.2, 6+) and is a combined -2.1 in February/March (7.5 – 6.6 – 5.4, third to seventh, 6+). On the positive side, “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” was +1.3 in January. In back-to-back sweeps urban contemporary sibling WKKV erodes by -1.1 (6.5 – 5.4 – 4.3, 6+) and exits the top ten (#8 to #11). Immediately prior to the February sweep, “V-100.7 Jams” was an overall +2.0 via three successive gains (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.9 – 6.5, 6+). Even though it returns all but one-tenth of February’s +.6 (6.4 – 5.9, -.5, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB “B-93.3” continues in fourth-place. A combined +5.2 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.1 – 7.7 – 10.3, 6+), WLDB reached double-digits (10.3, “Holiday” 2018, 6+) for the first time in its PPM-history, but later spiraled by -4.5 (January 2019).

A loss of one-half share (4.1 – 3.6, 6+) drops Entercom sports talk WVEI from sixth to eighth. A combined -1.9 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.4 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+), WVEI was up seven-tenths in January and down one-tenth in February.

Just as they were in February, The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH and WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH are tied at #12; each has a 1.9 – 1.6, -.3, (6+) profile. By gaining one-tenth in January, WELH ended three straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall loss of eight-tenths (2.6 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+). WGBH was stable at 1.6 (6+) in January after “Holiday” 2018’s decrease of seven-tenths.

Providence Music Formats – Not only does iHeartMedia’s WHJY net a +2.0 in four consecutive ratings periods without a loss (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+), “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” is #1 for the third straight month and cracks double-digits (10.5, 6+). Prior to taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. In three straight gains (6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music – 92 PRO FM” is a cumulative +1.4 and advances from fourth to third with its best 6+-stat (7.8) since September 2018’s 8.4. Jumping from eighth to sixth, iHeartMedia hot AC WSNE “Coast 93.3” (+.5, 6+) continues its up/down pattern that commenced in September 2018: 5.1 – 5.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 4.3. Although it drops from third to fourth, Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” is +1.8 in three straight sweeps without a loss (5.6 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.4, 6+); this follows a collective -3.1 as a result of three declines in succession (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9 – 5.6, 6+). A combined -1.6 in February/March (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6, 6+), WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” carries on in ninth-place. The Townsquare Media CHR had more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-share as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Owing to a March loss of one-half share, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB “B-101” (6.0, flat at #5, 6+), ends a down/up pattern that existed from September 2018 through February 2019: -.9 (September) +.5 (October); -.5 (November); +.5 (December); -.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2 (January 2019); and -.4 (February.

Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to being -1.6 in February/March (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” segues from first to second. November 2018’s 11.2 is its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era.

Down or flat for the fifth consecutive time, iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” has lost one-half share in that stretch (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3, 6+) and exits the top twenty (#20 to #21).

Public news/talk WJCT “Your Community – Your World” is a cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+) and carries on at #12.

West Palm Beach Music Formats – Stuck on 9.2 (6+) in January and February, after faltering by -1.0 in January, Hubbard hot AC WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” explodes with a mammoth +2.0 to 11.2 (6+) and is #1 for the third month in a row. After finishing on top in 12 consecutive ratings periods, WRMF shifted to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. This is its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Co-owned adult contemporary WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9,” which was a combined -3.2 in January/February (10.7 – 7.8 – 7.5, 6+), answers with a +.7 to 8.2 (6+) and remains in the runner-up slot. Steady in third-place, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” is off one-tenth to 6.4 (6+), snapping at three its consecutive string of positive spikes that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). In three straight gains (3.8 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 5.3, 6+), cluster-mate WKGR “Gater 98.7 – The Palm Beaches’ Rock Station” was a combined +1.5, but that increase vanishes completely with a -1.5 to 3.8 (flat at #5, 6+). Co-owned Spanish contemporary WRLX “Mia 92.1,” which notched a one-half share increase in February to wipe away its -.5 in three consecutive losses (2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), regresses by seven-tenths (2.8 – 2.1, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #11). Flat at #9, WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” is a cumulative -1.9 via five consecutive down or flat reports (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.6 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5, 6+).

Flat at 2.3 (6+), after being up a combined half-share in January/February (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” is anchored at #13 for the 11thconsecutive time. This marks the fourth consecutive sweep that University of North Carolinaat Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC is either up or flat for a net gain of two-tenths (.6 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .8, flat at #16, 6+).

Greensboro Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations by Entercom adult hits WSMW are +.9 (January); -.6 (February); and +.9 in March (8.9 – 9.8, 6+) as “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” progresses from second to first with its best 6+performance (9.8) since July 2018’s 10.0. This marks the first time WSMW has reached #1 since August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). “Simon” was a combined +.9 in “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 (8.6 – 8.6 – 9.5, 6+). Displaced from the lead and dropping to second is urban AC sibling WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School,” which is -2.3 as the result of five straight declines (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). Its consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) ended in January at 26. Up one-full share in November, WQMG spent 11 straight sweeps at #1 before segueing to #2 in December. An overall +.9 through three consecutive positive moves (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.0, 6+), rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WJMH “102 Jamz” falters by one-half share to 6.5 (6+) but remains in fourth-place. Its “Holiday” 2018 increase ended six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -2.1 (8.2 – 7.4 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+). A collective +.8 in three sweeps in succession without a loss (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss-FM” enters the top ten (#11 to #10). In the last three survey periods, WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” had shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). The Entercom country outlet drops two-tenths in March (5.7 – 5.5, 6+) and continues in sixth-place. Prior to January’s gain, “The Wolf” was a cumulative -1.2 in three declines in a row (5.9 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.7, 6+). After substituting January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” is flat at 5.3 (6+) and repeats February’s eighth-place finish; “Q104.1” was -1.6 in December.

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of three straight upticks (5.2 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 7.3, 6+),Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” is an overall +2.1 (which includes March’s +1.4) and progresses from sixth to third. Down two-tenths (1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Red WolfBroadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” is at #14 for the third month in a row.

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BLOCK ISLAND, RI – Last week in Las Vegas, the message was unmistakable. While the National Association of Broadcasters’ mission remains advocating for FCC-licensees, the clear message to broadcasters at the NAB Show was to augment on-air with on-demand. More, ICYMI in last week’s column:

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LAS VEGAS — 100,000+ of us from some 160 countries are swarming the mammoth Convention Center. Clients I’m talking to here are upbeat. If you’re in sessions I’m attending, I’m That Guy, in the back, typing feverishly. Here’s what I’m hearing:

National Association of Broadcasters President & CEO Gordon Smith, opening the convention:

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Craig Carton Appears on WEPN’s Michael Kay Show After WFAN Decides to Pass. Three days after receiving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence for defrauding investors in a concert tickets re-sale Ponzi scheme, former WFAN morning personality Craig Carton made an appearance on WEPN “98.7 ESPN” on the afternoon drive Michael Kay show. Carton talked about his sentence, his gambling addiction, and the sports talk battle between WFAN and WEPN. The New York Post’s Greg Joycereports that Carton’s former partner – WFAN morning host Boomer Esiason – told his listeners that Carton, contrary to internet chatter, had not “backstabbed” WFAN by going on the competition. In fact, he offered to go on the “Boomer and Gio” show to talk, but Esiason felt uncomfortable with that. He said, “At the end of the day, [WFAN vice president of programming Mark] Chernoff and I sat down, and I didn’t feel comfortable with it. I really didn’t. I don’t know necessarily if they talked to Mike [Francesa] about it, or whoever. I know that he went on with Sid and Bernie [on WABC Radio].” Carton wrapped his appearance on the Michael Kay show by saying he “owes his audience an apology” and “he thanks those who believed in who he was and what he said on-air.” He also advised people dealing with addiction or who are victims of sexual assault to seek help.

In the Halls at the NAB Show. Pictured above at the 2019 NAB Show in Las Vegas are (from l-r): NPR CEO Jarl Mohn, Geller Media International president Valerie Geller, Amplifi Media CEO Steve Goldstein, and the NAB’s Josh Miley.

2019 NAB Show: Sound Bites from Sin City. Consultant Holland Cooke is in Las Vegas at the 2019 NAB Show covering the confab for TALKERS magazine. Coverage from Monday includes his notes from the opening presentation by NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith that included bestowing actor Alan Alda with the NAB’s Distinguished Service Award. See his report here.

Trump’s Homeland Security Purge/U.S.-Mexico Border Battle, Trump Tax Returns Issue, Mueller Report Aftermath, College Admissions Scandal, 2020 Democratic Candidates, Netanyahu Re-Election Bid, NCAA Final, and NBA and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/8). The ouster of DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and the further purging of DHS officials and the related state of affairs at the U.S.-Mexico border; the attempts by the House Ways and Means Committee to get access to President Trump’s tax returns; the aftermath of the Mueller Report and Attorney General William Barr’s appearance before a House appropriations subcommittee; guilty pleas in the college admissions scandal; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bid for re-election; Virginia beats Texas Tech for NCAA hoops crown; and NBA and MLB action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno’s Chris Daniel Celebrates 10 Years On-Air. Pictured above is KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno afternoon drive host Chris Daniel (wearing hat) at a special live event to celebrate his 10th anniversary in the position. Standing with Daniel is Fresno Mayor Lee Brand who presented Daniel with a framed declaration marking “Chris Daniel Day” in the city. Hundreds of Daniel’s loyal fans attended the event that featured music and comedy. Daniel told the crowd, “Thanks for being there, thanks for listening, but most of all – thanks for the laughs!”

Beasley Media Group Partners with ConnectedTravel for HyperDrive Rewards Safety Promotion. As the result of an increase in fatal crashes in Nevada in 2018, the firmConnectedTravel is expanding its HyperDrive Rewards mobile app to the Las Vegas market with the assistance of Beasley Media Groups local stations. HyperDrive Rewards is a free app that gamifies everyday driving challenges, helps users to improve their driving habits on the road, and offers them points and rewards for success. The app, available to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, alerts Las Vegas drivers when and where they speed, how often they use their phone, how they accelerate, how they brake, and how much time they spend on the road and in traffic. The multi-city rewards can be redeemed for cash and gift cards from over 50 local and online retail partners. Beasley’s stations – including news/talk KDWN and its four music-formatted siblings – are promoting the app.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. On-air and programming pro Christine Malovetz is promoted to assistant program director at Entercom’s alternative WNYL-FM, New York “ALT 92.3.” She’ll continue to host the station’s midday show. Entercom New York SVP of programming Mike Kaplan says, “Christine has been a huge contributor to the team. She’s been my true partner-in-crime and I’m thrilled for her on this much-deserved promotion. Christine has her finger on the pulse of alternative music in New York and we look forward to the station’s continued growth under the leadership of this team.”…..Programmer Curtis Johnson is named program director for Lotus Communications’ Fresno rock outlet KKBZ “105.1 The Blaze.” Johnson takes over for Jon Ballard, who recently exited the station. Johnson notes in his Facebook post he’s been out of radio since leaving One Putt Broadcasting in 2014. “Today starts a new chapter in my career… My skills may be a little rusty, but I still have a face for radio.”…..WUSY, Chattanooga “U.S.101” morning show “Mo & StyckMan” (pictured at left) is honored with the Academy of Country Music’s Radio Award for “On-Air Personality of the Year – Medium Market.” The show was recognized at the annual Radio Winners Reception in Las Vegas…..Through his entertainment company the Elvis Duran Group, New York-based radio star Elvis Duran is embarking on a nationwide talent search for documentaries, docu-series, reality and lifestyle shows. EDG is working with NYC TV/film/digital production firm Atlas Media Corp to leverage Duran’s “10-plus million listeners to help find talent.” The press release says, “This innovative nationwide casting initiative will deputize millions of eyes and ears to help find talent that Atlas Media and the Elvis Duran Group can develop into TV shows, documentaries, short-form webisodes, podcasts, and other content. Through verbal prompts on the top-rated Elvis Duran & The Morning Show, and related social media blasts, listeners and fans will be encouraged to submit their TV-friendly friends, family members, and interesting local personalities to a nationwide talent search on elvistvcasting.com. Atlas and EDG will review the submissions and offer development deals to the most promising talent. Resulting projects will be pitched to networks and SVOD platforms.”…..iHeartMedia announces the lineup for the Daytime Village at the iHeartCountry Festival taking place on Saturday, May 4 at Frank Erwin Center’s North Box Office Plaza in Austin. The free, daytime event will feature live performances by: Russell Dickerson, Michael Ray, Lauren Alaina, LOCASH, and Morgan Wallen.

iHeartMedia Execs Honored by UJA-Federation of New York. Last week’s gathering of music and media executives at Freds at Barneys New York was a precursor to the June 11 UJA-Federation’s Music Visionary of the Year Award Luncheon at which iHeartMedia’s Bob Pittman, Rich Bressler, John Sykes, and Tom Poleman will be honored for their outstanding professional and philanthropic achievements. Pictured above from left to right are: Rob Stringer, Fred Davis, Julie Greenwald, John Sykes, Bob Pittman, Daniel Glass, Rich Bressler, Tom Poleman, Jessica Reif Ehrlich, Kevin Liles, Barry Weiss, and Avery Lipman.

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Monday Memo: 2019 NAB Show. The NAB Show is underway in Las Vegas, and TALKERS contributor Holland Cooke reports that the convention focus is taking the term “broadcast” quite literally. He writes: “Huge banners atop the Convention Center proclaim ‘Every story starts here,’ and reiterate the theme of the National Association of Broadcasters’ annual convention these past several Aprils: ‘Where content comes to life.’ As opposed to ‘where content feeds transmitters.’ While the NAB’s mission remains lobbying on behalf of FCC licensees, its unmistakable message to attendees is – as NPR VP/distribution Michael Beach put it – ‘be offering your content anywhere and everywhere you can do it.’” Read HC’s column here.

Marc Hochman and WQAM, Miami Sign Extension. Miami sports talk personality Marc Hochman signs a new, long-term contract to continue co-hosting the afternoon drive program on Entercom’s sports talk WQAM. Hochman works on air with former Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder on the “Hoch and Crowder” afternoon drive show. Hochman says, “I’m so fortunate to be able to continue doing this show with Channing Crowder and our super producer Erick Falero. The community we’ve built on the air is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever accomplished on radio.” He previously served in the market as executive producer for the “Dan Le Batard Show,” based at sister sports talker WAXY-AM, Miami.

Carver Appointed to Market President Post at Townsquare Media’s Amarillo Cluster. Sales and management pro Carolyn Carver is named market president and chief revenue officer for Townsquare Media’s Amarillo, Texas cluster that includes news/talk KIXZ and three music-formatted stations. Carver says, “I’m so excited to be back with Townsquare. The vision, passion, and commitment of Bill Wilson and Erik Hellum to the industry, its clients, and their people is what has set them apart from all others. The company has a motto of ‘You Matter’ and they stand behind that. It starts from the top down and it is refreshing to see leaders who believe in their people and make them feel a part of something grand.”

Mike Gallagher Packs the House at WJJK, Montauk’s Casino Event. More than 600 listeners of Red Wolf Broadcasting’s news/talk WJJF, Montauk, Long Island packed the cabaret theater at Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut on Saturday (4/6) as Salem Radio Network host Mike Gallagher and an all-star panel saluted the radio station’s seventh anniversary as a news/talk station. Station officials say it was the best-attended cabaret event in the station’s history. And to top it all off, since the following day was Gallagher’s birthday, WJJF arranged for a Marilyn Monroe impersonator to sing “Happy Birthday” a la the famous salute to JFK.

TALKERS Notes Notes. Satellite receiver changes are taking place for Salem Radio Network and Salem Music Network that affects affiliates of the company’s Christian programming platform. Salem is switching from satellite to IP and will be upgrading its receiver fleet in mid-2019 to the XDS platform. Current Wegener satellite receivers will be replaced and upgraded to an XDS Pro receiver that will be fed completely from the internet. Salem will continue broadcasting on the current Wegener satellite platform while migrating to the new XDS IP receivers and expect to end the SES-2 Wegener satellite feed in early 2020. This will affect current Salem Wegener affiliates (Christian on SES-2) and NOT current Westwood One XDS (General Market on SES-11) receivers. Current affiliates should submit a receiver request here…..Mel Wheeler–owned news/talk station WFIR, Roanoke, Virginia was honored with top awards by the Associated Press for radio stations in Virginia’s and West Virginia’s largest cities. “The Roanoke Valley’s Morning News” was honored for “Best Newscast” in competition with stations in Richmond, Norfolk, and Charleston, West Virginia. WFIR took home second-place honors for its website. WFIR sports earned first-place honors in the “Best Sports Feature” category for their story on “The Making of Negro League Legend Larry LaGrande.” The judges also gave the station top honors among Virginia stations for “Best Sports Operation” featuring “Greg Roberts Live.”…..New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold is signed up to make weekly live appearances on WEPN, New York’s “Michael Kay Show.” “98.7 ESPN” program director Ryan Hurley says, “We could not be happier about this partnership. There is a lot of excitement surrounding one of the NFL’s young rising stars and his future. Listeners will not only get an inside look into his week-to-week journey on the field, but they’ll get to know Sam off the field as another member of the 98.7 family when he joins Michael, Don and Peter every week.”…..Pictured below are KQTM, Albuquerque afternoon personality Jim Villanucci (center) with Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Amari Cooper (left) and Cooper’s childhood friend and former New Mexico Lobos player Daryl Chestnut (right). The two appeared on Villanucci’s program to promote their youth football camp.

Kirstjen Nielsen Steps Down from DHS/U.S.-Mexico Border Situation, Trump Tax Returns Issue, Libya Military Action, 2020 Democratic Candidates, Venezuela Tensions, ‘SNL’ Mocks Joe Biden, Netanyahu Campaign/U.S.-Israel Relations, NCAA Final Four, and NBA and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The forced resignation of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and the related state of affairs at the U.S.-Mexico border; the House Ways and Means Committee’s request for President Trump’s tax returns; the U.S. pulls out of Tripoli as the Libyan National Army approaches the city; the Democratic candidates vying to challenge President Trump in 2020, the tensions in Venezuela over infrastructure failures and the presence of Russian troops; “Saturday Night Live” pokes fun at Joe Biden’s inappropriate touching troubles; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s re-election bid and the state U.S.-Israel relations; the NCAA Final Four; and NBA and MBL games were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Los Angeles rock station KLOS is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special one-time-only reunion of the “Mark & Brian Radio Show” on Thursday April 25 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The legendary KLOS morning team retired from the station in August of 2012. KLOS program director and Cumulus Media rock format captain Keith Cunningham says, “We’re stoked that Mark & Brian have agreed to get the band back together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of KLOS. If not for the Mark & Brian Show, KLOS may not have reached the 50-year milestone. The show is an enormous part of the brand’s history and the 25th will be an epic day for Southern California radio listeners.”…..NRG Media’s hip hop KOPW, Omaha “Power 106.9” announces the launch of its new morning show, “Chef West And The Morning Scramble,” featuring Tay Westberry and Alyssa Siebken. Westberry, a.k.a. Mr. West, previously hosted the evening show. Siebken is a musician who appeared on season 13 of “American Idol.” KOPW program director Caleb Farnell says, “Tay has his finger firmly on the pulse of the ‘Power’ listener and Alyssa will be able to bring a valuable perspective to the show.”…..Condolences to the family and friends of Morris Diamond, a legendary music business player who passed away recently at age 97. Diamond got his start serving as a gofer for the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. He later got into song publishing and launched his own label, Beverly Hills Records. He published a memoir of his encounters with music biz greats from Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson titled, The Name Dropper or People I Schlepped With……Pictured below at Westwood One‘s Backstage at the ACM Awards on Friday and Saturday (4/5-6) at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas are (from l-r): Mike McVay, EVP programming & content, Cumulus Media and Westwood One; Cumulus Country operations manager Charlie Cook, country artist Lauren Alaina; and Cumulus Media VP, label relations John Kilgo.

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LAS VEGAS – Huge banners atop the Convention Center proclaim “Every story starts here,” and reiterate the theme of the National Association of Broadcasters’ annual convention these past several Aprils: “Where content comes to life.”

As opposed to “where content feeds transmitters.” While the NAB’s mission remains lobbying on behalf of FCC licensees, its unmistakable message to attendees is – as NPR VP/distribution Michael Beach put it — “be offering your content anywhere and everywhere you can do it.”

iHeartMedia Revenue Rises 6% from January to February. Those following iHeartMedia’s Chapter 11 reorganization process are aware the company has been filing monthly revenue reports since April of last year – a month after it declared Chapter 11. The most recent report filed with U.S Bankruptcy Court in Houston on March 28 shows revenue of $246.2 million for the month of February, up 6% from January. Most of the figures in the report – revenue, operating income, net income (loss) – have bounced around a lot since April 2018. Although revenue was up in February, that followed a drop in revenue of almost $100 million from December to January. Net income in February was $14.3 million, a turnaround from January’s loss of $9.5 million. Operating income was $24.1 million in February, a bounceback from January’s $7.6 million figure, the lowest reported number since April of 2018.

PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s February 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk. Half of the news/talk stations on our panel improved (weekly 6+ AQH share) from the January survey to the February survey, led by Entercom’s KMBZ-FM, Kansas City (+1.0). Comparing February 2018 to February 2019, about half the stations showed improvement with Emmis’ WIBC-FM, Indianapolis leading the pack (+2.2) and Cumulus’s WMAL-AM/FM, Washington (+2.0) close behind. Three stations ranked #1 in their markets in February: Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta; Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5”; and CMG’s WOKV-FM, Jacksonville. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.

2019 Radio Mercury Awards Deadline Is Now April 19. The deadline for submitting entries for the RAB’s 2019 Radio Mercury Awards is being extended to April 19. The “biggest creative awards show for radio and audio” will honor broadcasters’ efforts in numerous categories. They include: Radio station produced commercials and campaigns; radio station produced promotional spots; creative use of audio: podcasts, branded content and activations, interactive audio, and more; creative use of sound/music: sonic branding, jingles, songs and music, etc.; integrated campaigns with radio/audio; PSA spots/campaigns; and Spanish-language spots/campaigns. You can listen to last year’s winners, learn about the prize money, get more information, and enter by clicking here.

TALKERS News Notes. Washington, DC all-news station WTOP is celebrating 50 years as an all-news radio station and features a nice, historical piece on its website that chronicles the station’s evolution. The idea for making the station a news-intensive one came from Washington Post publisher Katharine Graham who’d been listening to suburban AM WAVA present an all-news format and instructed WTOP’s managers to focus on news. WTOP was owned by the Post at the time…..A piece published at NJ.com speculates about whether former WFAN, New York morning personality Craig Carton could pop back up at the Entercom-owned sports talk station if Carton avoids jail time at his sentencing on Friday (4/5). Citing a comment by WFAN program director Mark Chernoff in Newsday in which he said the station would welcome a discussion about a chance to return if he avoids prison, writer James Kratch reports Carton’s attorneys suggest Carton would be able to pay restitution if he’s allowed to work. However, Newsday also reports that the judge is unlikely to be so lenient about such serious fraud crimes. According to a story in the New York Daily News, prosecutors are seeking six to seven years in prison…..As per Chicago media maven Robert Feder’s report, Erich Mancow Muller’s morning drive show on Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM is starting a bit earlier as the station makes a minor schedule change. Instead of starting at 6:00 am, the Mancow show starts at 5:30, effective today (4/1)…..Sports talk radio host Dan Sileo – who hosts the morning drive show at Entercom’s San Diego sports talk station KWFN “97.3 The Fan” – is also hosting a new, two-hour weekend show at the company’s WEEI-FM, Boston. Sileo’s show – airing from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm – debuted over the weekend. Sileo is a Connecticut native who played college football at Miami and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1987.

Podcasting Is Now Mainstream (or Is It?). According to a new study by Edison Research, podcasting continues to permeate and gain ground within the general public’s media usage. Media consultant and TALKERS columnist Holland Cooke sited these latest stats on his RT America “The Big Picture” TV show (3/29) and examined their implications by interviewing TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Jacobs Media president Fred Jacobs. To view the segment in its entirety, please click here.

Central American Aid Cuts, Joe Biden Inappropriateness Allegation, 2020 Democratic Hopefuls, Border Wall/Immigration Issues, Mueller Report Aftermath, AOC FDR Snafu, Trump vs Obamacare, NCAA Tourney, and NBA and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Trump administration plans aid cuts to El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras; allegation about inappropriate touching by Joe Biden; the Democrats vying to face President Trump in 2020; the status of the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the flow of migrants to the border; the aftermath of the Trump-Russia investigation report from Robert Mueller; Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez’s statement that Republicans engineered the 22nd Amendment to force FDR from office; the Trump administration’s effort to repeal Obamacare; the NCAA tournament action; and NBA and MLB action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Radio pro Danita Maldonado is named afternoon personality and web/social media manager for Cumulus Media’s country KXKC, Lafayette, Louisiana “NASH FM 99.1.” She previously served on air at country KMRK-FM, Odessa, Texas and country KFTX, Corpus Christi, Texas as well as with production companies and ad agencies in New York City…..Swick Broadcasting adds the “O’Reilly In The Morning” program with Phil O’Reilly to WLKI-FM, Angola, Indiana. This is a move of flagships for O’Reilly who most recently broadcast his syndicated show from Midwest Communications’ WNWN-FM, Battle Creek, Michigan. O’Reilly says, “I am very excited to be part of the teams at Swick Broadcasting and Local Radio Networks. My family and I reside just up the road in Battle Creek, Michigan and we are very happy to stay right here and continue to have fun on the radio!”…..Programming pro Brian Stephenson is named operations manager for Townsquare Media’s six-station Yakima, Washington cluster that includes rock KATS-FM, CHR KFFM-FM, and country KDBL-FM…..Resonate Hawaii LLC is buying adult hits KBGX-FM, Keaau and country KKOA, Volcano from Mahalo Multimedia LLC for $550,000. Susan Patrick and Jason James of Patrick Communications were the exclusive brokers for this transaction…..Westwood One’s new urban AC morning stars Rick Party (left) and Sasha the Diva (center), attended the NAACP Image Awards this weekend. Below, they pose for a pic with “The Daily Show” host Trevor Noah (right).